Tree removal permit rules in Atlanta, GA — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
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.
Atlanta Code §158-101 requires a permit to remove, destroy, or injure any tree with DBH ≥6 inches on private property (pines require permits at ≥12 inches DBH). Recompense formula: $100 × (trees removed − trees replaced) + $30 × (DBH inches removed − caliper inches replaced), paid into the Tree Trust Fund. Updated ordinance (effective Jan 1, 2026): R-1/R-2 property recompense cap raised from $10,000 to $35,000/acre; R-2A/R-3/R-3A raised from $7,500 to $25,000/acre. MTR (minimum trees retained) for R-1 increases from 45% to 65% of DBH. First violation fine: no less than $500; subsequent: $1,000.
Removing protected tree without permit: $500–$10,000+ per tree. Mandatory replacement or recompense into Tree Trust Fund.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Fulton County.
See how other cities in Fulton County handle tree removal & heritage trees.
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