Chatham County, GA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)
Key Facts
- Public tree work
- Written approval required
- Citation
- Savannah Code § 8-11005(2)
- Approver
- City administrator / arborist
- Private pruning
- Usually allowed, no permit
- Damage penalty
- Pay tree value plus costs
Summary
In the City of Savannah you may prune trees on your own private lot, but no one may trim, prune, or remove any tree on public property or right-of-way without written approval from the city administrator (arborist).
Unless otherwise permitted by an applicable city permit or license, no person shall trim, prune, or remove any tree on public property without procuring the written approval of the administrator.
Full Breakdown
Savannah's Landscape and Tree Protection Ordinance (Sec. 8-11005) protects the urban canopy. Under 8-11005(2), unless otherwise permitted by a city permit or license, no person may trim, prune, or remove a tree on public property without the administrator's written approval, nor plant on the right-of-way without approval. Damaging a public tree (cutting, attaching wires/nails/signs, applying harmful substances, fire, or root harm from construction, parking, or storage) is prohibited. Private ornamental pruning that does not remove a protected tree generally needs no permit. Unincorporated Chatham County follows the shared MPC framework; contact the county arborist before major work near marsh, wetland, or right-of-way trees.
Violations & Fines
Damaging a city tree requires paying the value difference before and after the damage, plus evaluation, corrective maintenance, stump removal, and replacement costs (Sec. 8-11012).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I trim the street tree in front of my house?
Do I need permission to prune my own backyard tree?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chatham County
Compare Chatham County to another location·View the Georgia landscaping rules overview
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