Effingham County, GA Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)

Effingham County's tree ordinance (Ord. No. 2026-023, adopted March 3, 2026) singles out landmark trees for the heaviest protection in Chapter 30, Article X. A landmark tree is defined at Sec. 30-403 as one with a diameter at breast height of 24 inches or greater that also shows notable form, species rarity, cultural significance, or historical importance, as determined by the county manager or designee; specimen and champion trees get the same tier of protection. Sec. 30-425(b) flatly prohibits removing any specimen, landmark, or champion tree except when it is certified as a hazard tree or the county manager determines no feasible alternative exists.

Sec. 30-472 reinforces this by barring variances for these trees unless a hazard certification is on file. If removal is authorized, Sec. 30-429(c)-(d) sets mitigation at a 1:3 ratio, three inches of replacement caliper for every inch of DBH removed, double the 1:1.5 ratio that applies to an ordinary protected tree, payable through on-site planting, off-site planting, or a payment into the county tree fund calculated under Sec. 30-456. A permit under Sec. 30-442 is required before any landmark tree can be cut, and the tree protection plan required at application under Sec.

30-443 must identify every landmark, specimen, or champion tree on the parcel by species, DBH, and condition. Sec. 30-473(a)(4) makes unauthorized removal of a protected tree, including a landmark tree, subject to a minimum $500.00 fine per tree, escalating to $1,000.00 per day for a continuing violation, with enhanced penalties if three or more protected trees are removed. Sec. 30-402 exempts removal of diseased or infested trees verified by a Georgia Forestry Commission forester, but even then prior notification to the county manager is required specifically because the tree is a champion, landmark, or specimen tree.