Tree Protection in Columbus, GA (2026)
3 verified tree protection rules for Columbus, Georgia, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Heritage & Protected Trees
Columbus, Georgia's Tree Board can designate a tree an Exceptional Specimen Tree, its version of a heritage or landmark tree, for exceptional size, age, historic association, ecological value, or state/national champion status, then protect it from removal.
Columbus GA Exceptional Specimen Tree Rule
Some RestrictionsColumbus, Georgia Unified Development Ordinance § 13.1.1 ("Exceptional Specimen Tree")
Exceptional Specimen Tree means any tree which upon application is determined by the Tree Board to be a unique and intrinsic value to the general public because of its size, age, historic association or ecological value or any tree designated a Georgia State Champion, United States Champion or World Champion by the American Forestry Association. The City Arborist shall keep a record of all spec...
Protected Tree Species
Columbus, Georgia bars cutting, damaging or killing a protected tree, a Beautification Plan Tree, Public Protected Tree or Exceptional Specimen Tree, without City Arborist or Tree Board permission under the Unified Development Ordinance.
Columbus GA Protected Tree Removal Rules
Significant RestrictionsColumbus, Georgia Unified Development Ordinance § 4.6.12(F)
Any Beautification Plan Tree or Public Protected Tree or Exceptional Specimen Tree may only be cut with permission of the City Arborist or in the event of his denial, the Tree Board. Any Beautification Plan Tree or Public Tree which poses imminent danger to the public health, welfare or safety or any tree that needs to be removed on an emergency basis to restore public utility service may be re...
Parkway Planting
Columbus, Georgia's City Arborist must prepare a street tree planting plan and program for major arterial and collector streets and other public spaces, adopted by Council as the city's Official Street Tree Planting Plan and Program.
Columbus GA Street Tree Planting Plan
Some RestrictionsColumbus, Georgia Unified Development Ordinance § 4.6.4(B)(7)
Street Trees. Prepare a street tree planting plan and program along all major arterial streets, collector streets, and publicly owned spaces, including the preparation of detailed plans and specifications for all areas covered by the tree planting plan.