Property owners in Gwinnett may trim neighbor tree branches that cross property lines under Georgia common law, limited to the boundary. Removal of healthy trees may trigger Gwinnett tree protection ordinance permit requirements.
Georgia follows the common-law 'self-help' rule: you may trim branches and roots of a neighbor's tree up to (but not past) your property line, provided you do not harm the tree's health. Work beyond trimming, or removal of protected/specimen trees as defined by Gwinnett's tree ordinance, may require a county permit. Tree work in the public right-of-way requires coordination with Gwinnett DOT. ISA-certified arborists recommended for large trees.
See how Gwinnett County's tree trimming rules stack up against other locations.
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