Tree Removal Permits: Atlanta vs Roswell
How do tree removal permits rules compare between Atlanta, GA and Roswell, GA?
Atlanta and Roswell have similar restriction levels.
Atlanta, GA
Fulton County
Atlanta has one of the strongest tree protection ordinances in the nation under City Code Chapter 158, Article II. A tree removal permit (arborist permit) is required for the removal of any tree with a diameter at breast height (DBH) of 6 inches or greater on private property. The city's Urban Ecology Division administers the program. Atlanta is known as the 'City in a Forest' and the ordinance is designed to protect that canopy.
View full Atlanta rules →Roswell, GA
Fulton County
UDC §12.1.3 requires a permit to remove, poison, damage, trim, or transplant any tree 3 inches or more in diameter at breast height (DBH). Removal without a permit triggers an automatic $1,000-per-tree penalty.
View full Roswell rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Atlanta | Roswell |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Code | Atlanta Code Ch. 158, Art. II | - |
| Permit Trigger | Any tree 6 inches DBH or greater | - |
| Recompense Fee | $140 per inch of DBH | - |
| Emergency Removal | Allowed; retroactive permit within 5 days | - |
| Unpermitted Removal Fine | Up to $500/inch DBH + 2:1 replanting | - |
| Code Section | - | Roswell UDC §12.1.3 |
| DBH Threshold | - | 3 inches |
| Species Threshold | - | Trees reaching 15 ft mature height |
| Penalty | - | $1,000 per tree (no permit) |
| Contact | - | City Landscape Architect (770) 594-6293 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Atlanta FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Atlanta?
Yes, if the tree is 6 inches or greater in diameter at breast height (about 4.5 feet above ground). You must apply through the Urban Ecology Division. The city may deny removal if the tree is healthy and can be preserved.
What is the recompense fee for tree removal?
The recompense fee is $140 per inch of DBH. For example, removing a 20-inch tree would cost $2,800 in recompense. This fee funds the city's tree replanting program. Dead or hazardous trees may be exempt from the fee.
Roswell FAQ
What size tree triggers Roswell's permit requirement?
3 inches in diameter at breast height (DBH) for any tree species that reaches 15 feet or more at maturity. That captures most backyard trees.
Can I remove a dead tree without a permit in Roswell?
You must still notify the City Arborist and document the condition (typically with a certified arborist's report) before removal. The permit fee and replacement requirements may be waived for confirmed dead or hazardous trees.
Compare other topics
See how Atlanta and Roswell compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool