Heritage & Protected Trees: Atlanta vs Sandy Springs
How do heritage & protected trees rules compare between Atlanta, GA and Sandy Springs, GA?
Atlanta and Sandy Springs have similar restriction levels.
Atlanta, GA
Fulton County
Atlanta – the "City in a Forest" – protects every tree on private property 6 inches DBH or larger under City Code Chapter 158. Removal of a healthy tree requires a permit from the Arborist Division, a 15-day public posting, and either on-site replacement or payment into the Tree Recompense Fund at appraised value.
View full Atlanta rules →Sandy Springs, GA
Fulton County
Sandy Springs designates heritage or landmark trees based on size, age, or species. Removal or damage to heritage trees carries significant penalties.
View full Sandy Springs rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Atlanta | Sandy Springs |
|---|---|---|
| DBH threshold | 6-inch DBH (any species) | - |
| Public posting | 15 days on the tree | - |
| Recompense Fund | $30 per inch (typical) into fund | - |
| Heritage Tree bonus | 2x recompense for Heritage designation | - |
| Permit | Arborist Division approval required | - |
| Designation | - | Size, species, or historical |
| Typical Size | - | 24+ inch trunk diameter |
| Removal | - | Council approval required |
| Topic | - | Heritage Trees |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Atlanta FAQ
Can I cut a 6-inch tree in my backyard?
Not without a permit. Atlanta regulates every tree on private property 6 inches DBH or larger, regardless of species or location. Apply through the Arborist Division online portal.
What is the Tree Recompense Fund?
A city fund you pay into when you can't replant on-site. Amounts are based on the appraised value of the removed tree – typically $30 per caliper inch, more for Heritage specimens.
Is my big oak a Heritage Tree?
Heritage status requires formal designation by the City Arborist. Check the Heritage Tree register online. Even non-Heritage oaks 6+ inches DBH still require a permit to remove.
Sandy Springs FAQ
How is a heritage tree designated?
Based on trunk size (typically 24+ inches), species rarity, age, or historical significance. Residents may nominate trees.
Can I ever remove a heritage tree?
Only with special approval, typically from city council or tree commission. Granted mainly for safety hazards.
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