Chatham County, GA Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in Chatham County, GA, sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances, list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Key Facts
- Undeveloped land
- Over 2 inches dbh protected
- Developed land
- 12 inches dbh or larger
- Single-family lots
- Excepted from 12-inch rule
- Wetland trees
- Protected regardless of size
- Citation
- Savannah Code § 8-11005(4)
Summary
The City of Savannah protects many trees: on undeveloped land any tree over two inches in diameter, and on developed land any tree 12 inches or larger (except single-family lots). Protected trees may not be removed without an approved permit or waiver.
The following trees are protected within the City of Savannah and shall not be removed unless a permit has been approved or the requirement waived. On undeveloped property, any tree greater than two inches diameter at breast height (dbh). On developed property, any tree equal to or greater than 12 inches (dbh), except for single-family residential lots.
Full Breakdown
Under Savannah Code Sec. 8-11005(4), protected trees include: on undeveloped property, any tree greater than two inches diameter at breast height (dbh); on developed property, any tree 12 inches dbh or larger except single-family residential lots; any tree kept or planted for Tree Quality Points or greenspace; any tree in a wetland; and any 'Specimen Tree' or 'Exceptional Tree.' Exemptions include utility easements, airport clear zones, and land in active agricultural use. Removing a protected tree requires a clearing permit under Sec. 8-11006. Because 'any tree in a wetland' is protected, marsh-edge and tidal-buffer trees also fall under the state Coastal Marshlands Protection Act.
Violations & Fines
Unpermitted removal is a code violation; each day is a separate offense. Tree damage and replacement fees are set in the city's annual Revenue Ordinance (Sec. 8-11012).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do single-family homeowners need a permit to remove a tree?
Is a tree near the marsh treated differently?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chatham County
Compare Chatham County to another location·View the Georgia landscaping rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.