Fulton County, GA Tree Protection: Protected Tree Species (2026)
Key Facts
- Who designates
- County arborist
- Designation basis
- Type, size, age or value
- Requirement
- Written arborist permission before removal
- Maximum penalty
- $1,000 per violation per day
Summary
Removing a county arborist-designated specimen tree anywhere in unincorporated Fulton County is unlawful without the arborist's express written permission.
Not withstanding any of the other requirements of these regulations, it shall be unlawful to remove a specimen tree without the express written permission of the county arborist or authorized agent(s). Administrative standards have been established by the director of the department for the identification, preservation and protection of specimen trees.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 57).
Full Breakdown
Section 26-400(c) makes it unlawful to remove a specimen tree, one the county arborist designates as high-value for its type, size, age or other professional criteria under section 26-398(32)(c), without the arborist's express written permission. The department has adopted administrative standards for identifying, preserving and protecting these trees.
Violations & Fines
Illegal removal or disturbance of a specimen tree is a listed violation carrying an immediate stop-work order and fines up to $1,000 per violation per day under section 26-408.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my tree is a specimen tree?
What happens if a specimen tree is removed without permission?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fulton County
Compare Fulton County to another location·View the Georgia tree protection overview
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