Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Alpharetta vs Atlanta
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Alpharetta, GA and Atlanta, GA?
Alpharetta and Atlanta have similar restriction levels.
Alpharetta, GA
Fulton County
Removing any tree 6+ inches DBH in Atlanta requires a permit. Unincorporated Fulton requires arborist sign-off for specimen trees under §26-405. Recompense fees apply.
View full Alpharetta rules →Atlanta, GA
Fulton County
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.
View full Atlanta rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Alpharetta | Atlanta |
|---|---|---|
| Atlanta threshold | 6 in DBH | - |
| Recompense | ~$30/in DBH | - |
| Atlanta penalty | $1,000 + 4x recompense | - |
| Code | - | Atlanta Chapter 158 (§158-101) |
| Permit Trigger | - | DBH ≥6 inches (pines ≥12 in.) |
| Recompense Formula | - | $100/tree + $30/DBH inch (net) |
| R-1/R-2 Cap (eff. 2026) | - | $35,000/acre |
| First Violation Fine | - | Min. $500 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Alpharetta FAQ
Can I remove a dead tree without permit in Atlanta?
Need arborist documentation of dead condition first.
How long does a tree permit take?
Atlanta typically 7-14 days for routine permits.
Atlanta FAQ
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in Atlanta?
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.
What are the tree removal rules in Atlanta?
Code: Atlanta Chapter 158 (§158-101). Permit Trigger: DBH ≥6 inches (pines ≥12 in.). Recompense Formula: $100/tree + $30/DBH inch (net). R-1/R-2 Cap (eff. 2026): $35,000/acre.
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