Roswell, GA Invasive Plant Rules: Prohibited Species (2026)
Key Facts
- Invasive trees
- barred, no exceptions permitted
- Species source
- City Arborist's approved list only
- Applies to
- required tree replanting plans
- Enforced by
- City Arborist plan approval
Summary
Roswell, Georgia's tree ordinance flatly bans invasive species from any required tree replanting, mandating that replacement trees come from the City's approved species list instead.
5. Approved Trees. Unless otherwise approved by the City Arborist, trees selected for replanting must be on the tree species selection list maintained by the City. Invasive trees are not allowed under any circumstances. Trees selected must be free from injury, pests, disease, nutritional disorders or root defects, and must be in good vigor in order to assure a reasonable expectation of survival.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 17 | Unified Development Code: Supplement 5).
Full Breakdown
When Roswell, Georgia requires tree replanting to offset removed tree density, under the City's Unified Development Code, the species used are tightly controlled. Replacement trees must be drawn from the tree species selection list the City Arborist maintains, and invasive trees are prohibited outright, with no exception process available even through Arborist discretion. Selected trees must also be free of injury, pests, disease, nutritional disorders, or root defects and show good vigor, and the code encourages using species ecologically compatible with the site, matching what was originally removed wherever practical.
Violations & Fines
Using a barred invasive species in a replacement plan defeats City Arborist approval, and without that approval no land disturbance permit for the project may be issued.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are invasive tree species banned in Roswell, GA?
Who decides which tree species are acceptable?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Roswell
Compare Roswell to another location·View the Georgia invasive plant rules overview
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Prohibited Species in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Fulton County handle prohibited species.