Landscaping Rules in Atlanta, GA (2026)
8 verified landscaping rules for Atlanta, Georgia, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Grass Height Limits
Atlanta requires residential lawns and lots to be mowed so grass and weeds do not exceed 12 inches. Lots that exceed the limit are tagged for abatement under Atlanta Code Ch. 74, Art. III.
Landscaping: Grass Height
Some RestrictionsTree Trimming
Atlanta has one of the strongest tree protection ordinances in the South. Removal of any tree 6 in DBH or larger requires a permit from the city arborist, with recompense for healthy trees.
Landscaping: Tree Trimming
Heavy RestrictionsTree Removal & Heritage Trees
Atlanta's tree protection ordinance (Chapter 158) requires a permit to remove any tree with DBH of 6 inches or more on private property. The city overhauled its tree ordinance in June 2025, effective January 1, 2026, increasing recompense caps significantly.
Atlanta Tree Removal Regulations
Heavy RestrictionsWeed Ordinances
Atlanta treats tall weeds and noxious brush as a nuisance under Ch. 74, Art. III. Kudzu and privet are not banned but can be cited if they encroach on neighbors or the right-of-way.
Landscaping: Weed Ordinances
Some RestrictionsWater Restrictions
Under OCGA §12-5-7, Metro Atlanta operates year-round watering rules: outdoor irrigation is allowed only between 4 PM and 10 AM. Further cuts apply during EPD-declared drought levels.
Landscaping: Water Restrictions
Some RestrictionsGeorgia EPD — Drought Management (Rules for Drought Management, Chapter 391-3-30; Georgia Water Stewardship Act)
Drought Management Please note: On June 24, 2015, the DNR Board adopted Drought Management Rules that replaced former rule provisions relating to outdoor water use as well as the 2003 Drought Management Plan. The Drought Management Rules, Chapter 391-3-30, require specific drought response strategies during specified levels of declared drought that may limit or restrict some of the outdoor wate...
Rainwater Harvesting
Rainwater harvesting is legal and encouraged. Rain barrels need no permit; larger cisterns tied to interior plumbing require a plumbing permit and backflow prevention to protect potable supply.
Landscaping: Rainwater Harvesting
Few RestrictionsNative Plants
Atlanta encourages native plant landscaping and bans no common Georgia native species. Oaks, dogwoods, azaleas, and pollinator gardens can be planted without special review outside historic districts.
Landscaping: Native Plants
Few RestrictionsArtificial Turf
Atlanta allows artificial turf for residential landscaping. It must meet stormwater and zoning requirements, and historic districts may restrict visible turf as a non-traditional material.
Landscaping: Artificial Turf
Some RestrictionsLooking for Fulton County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Atlanta city rules.
Landscaping Rules in Fulton County →