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

Section 16-106(a) sets the size thresholds that trigger a tree removal permit outside of a land development or building permit: hardwoods with a diameter at breast height (DBH) of 10 inches or greater, softwoods 20 inches or greater, and understory trees 6 inches or greater, but only on non-residential, mixed-use, and multi-family zoned lots, plus any tree of any size located within the city's 75-foot stream buffer. Section 16-106(b) requires a completed application, a site plan or sketch showing species, size and location of trees to be removed and preserved, photos documenting condition for any tree claimed dead, diseased or hazardous, and payment of the fee on the city's fee schedule; the arborist can demand more, such as a tree survey or arborist report, if needed.

Section 16-106(c) exempts smaller trees on those same lot types, any single-family lot outside the 75-foot buffer, work necessary for public infrastructure, and trees damaged in a declared emergency like a tornado or ice storm. Under section 16-106(e), the city arborist approves removal within five business days once density-replacement and stream-buffer standards are satisfied. A denial can be appealed under section 16-114(c), first to the community development director within 30 days, then to the zoning board of appeals.