Decatur, AL Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)

Section 2-432(b) of the Decatur code governs removal of trees on public property and along public streets when someone other than the city does the work. Removal is prohibited without tree board approval unless immediate removal is necessary to protect public or private property. The listed grounds for a removal permit are a dying, severely diseased or infested tree that threatens other trees, a tree obstructing a public right-of-way, the view of traffic signs or intersection sight distance, a tree interfering with or damaging utilities, a tree defined as a nuisance under city nuisance abatement codes, and any other hazard to life or property. When credible evidence shows one of those conditions, the director can authorize immediate removal administratively and must report it to the tree board and city council.

An application states the reasons for removal and includes a replacement tree from the current City of Decatur, Alabama Tree List in the Decatur Design Standards. The tree board rules in a duly convened public meeting and can approve, approve with conditions, or deny. An approval is issued in writing, includes replanting requirements and is kept in city records. The applicant pays all costs of removal and replacement, including installation, review by the city arborist and ongoing maintenance, and a permit fee is set by city council adoption. For a non-emergency request the board must grant the permit on credible evidence of one of three conditions: a tree diseased, damaged or dying to the point that a professional arborist concludes it must be removed, a significant risk of harm to people or property, or significant damage such as cracked or heaved foundations, roofs, sidewalks, curbs or underground utilities.

Appeals go to the city council. File in writing with the city clerk within 14 days after the board's written decision. The council holds a public evidentiary hearing, decides de novo, and issues the city's final decision.