Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Atlanta vs Sandy Springs
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Atlanta, GA and Sandy Springs, GA?
Sandy Springs has fewer restrictions than Atlanta.
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 →Sandy Springs, GA
Fulton County
Sandy Springs regulates tree removal on private property through permits and size thresholds. Street trees are city-managed and cannot be removed by residents.
View full Sandy Springs rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Atlanta | Sandy Springs |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Permit Threshold | - | 6 to 12 inch trunk diameter |
| Street Trees | - | City-managed only |
| Replacement | - | Required for removed trees |
| Hazardous Trees | - | Expedited process |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Sandy Springs FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree?
If the trunk exceeds the size threshold (typically 6 to 12 inches), yes. Check Sandy Springs tree ordinance for details.
Who handles street trees?
Sandy Springs public works or urban forestry manages all trees in the public right-of-way.
Compare other topics
See how Atlanta and Sandy Springs 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