Tree Replacement Requirements: Alpharetta vs Atlanta
How do tree replacement requirements rules compare between Alpharetta, GA and Atlanta, GA?
Alpharetta and Atlanta have similar restriction levels.
Alpharetta, GA
Fulton County
Removed protected trees in Fulton County must be replaced according to the Fulton County Tree Recompense Schedule or replanted at minimum 2:1 ratio.
View full Alpharetta rules →Atlanta, GA
Fulton County
Atlanta requires tree replacement for any permitted tree removal under the Tree Protection Ordinance (Chapter 158, Article II). Replacement requirements are calculated based on the diameter of the removed tree and must be planted within a specified timeframe. The city's goal is to maintain and increase the urban tree canopy, which covers approximately 47% of the city.
View full Atlanta rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Alpharetta | Atlanta |
|---|---|---|
| Specimen ratio | 2:1 in DBH | - |
| Min caliper | 3 in | - |
| Survival period | 18 months | - |
| Replacement Ratio | - | 1:1 caliper-inch minimum |
| Minimum Size | - | 2-inch caliper at planting |
| Planting Deadline | - | Within 6 months of removal |
| Maintenance Period | - | 2 years minimum |
| Recompense Fee | - | $140/inch DBH if no space to replant |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Alpharetta FAQ
Can I pay instead of replanting?
Yes — Tree Bank Fund accepts recompense per the schedule.
What species qualify?
Native hardwoods preferred; check County Approved Tree List.
Atlanta FAQ
How many replacement trees do I need in Atlanta?
Replacement is based on the diameter of the removed tree — generally one caliper inch of new planting for each inch of DBH removed. If you cannot fit enough trees on your property, you pay the recompense fee ($140/inch) into the city's tree fund.
What species can I plant as replacements?
Replacement trees must be species approved by the city arborist. Native species such as oaks, maples, tulip poplars, and dogwoods are preferred. The Urban Ecology Division maintains a list of approved replacement species.
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