Brookhaven, GA Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)

Article III of Chapter 14 in the Code of the City of Brookhaven, Georgia requires a permit for tree removal. Section 14-48(c)(1) bars anyone from removing any tree without a permit, regardless of its condition, and Section 14-54(c) sets the rules for non-development removal. On single-dwelling detached properties, permits are required for all non-emergency removals and for all trees four inches DBH or larger. Up to two trees other than specimen trees can be removed every 18 months as long as the minimum tree density of 130 DBH inches per acre is maintained, and a permit that reaches that limit precludes further live tree removals on the property for 18 months.

More than two can be approved at the discretion of the City Tree Canopy Preservation Manager based on lot size, remaining site density, remaining species, and the sizes and conditions of remaining trees. Trees assessed as poor or DDH (dead, dying or hazardous) by a qualified professional do not count against the limit, but removing a DDH tree four DBH inches or greater still requires a permit, and the Level 2 health assessment must be dated within the last 50 days of submittal. An application needs a completed form documenting site density, a site plan or sketch showing trees to remove, trees to keep and structures, clear photographs of the trees and their defects, and professional documentation when required.

The issued permit and the City public notice sign must be on site at least five days before and on the day of removal, staked where visible from the street, with each tree flagged; the five-day rule does not apply to emergency removals. Non-residential properties get one live tree per one-fourth acre of the property's area per 18 months, with replanting as a condition of approval. Removing a tree in a City right-of-way requires written approval from the Director. Section 14-49 exempts horticultural properties such as farms, nurseries and orchards, and necessary removals by a public utility or the City within permanent utility easements or public rights-of-way.