DeKalb County Tree Preservation Ordinance (Chapter 14, Article V) requires a permit to remove specimen and boundary trees on developed lots. Georgia state tree preservation authority applies countywide.
DeKalb County has one of the stronger tree ordinances in metro Atlanta. The Tree Preservation Ordinance (Ch. 14, Art. V) requires a permit for the removal of specimen trees (typically 27-inch DBH for hardwoods, smaller for certain protected species), boundary trees, and any trees on undeveloped or redeveloping lots. Construction projects must submit a Tree Protection Plan showing critical root zones, tree save areas, and mitigation. Street trees in the county right-of-way are managed by DeKalb Roads & Drainage and cannot be removed by residents. Dead, diseased, or hazardous trees may qualify for an administrative approval from the county arborist. Atlanta's famed tree canopy extends into DeKalb; Druid Hills is notable for mature hardwoods.
Unauthorized removal of protected tree: fines can reach $500 to $1,000 per inch DBH plus replacement at 2:1 or 3:1. Specimen tree removal without permit: may exceed $10,000 per tree.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Brookhaven, GA
Construction in Brookhaven is restricted by Ch. 7, §7-196. Permitted hours: Monday–Friday 7:00 AM–7:00 PM; Saturday 8:00 AM–5:00 PM. No construction on Sunda...
Brookhaven, GA
Barking dogs in Brookhaven are regulated under the general noise ordinance (Ch. 16, Art. VII) and the Animals ordinance (Ch. 5). Persistent barking constitut...
Brookhaven, GA
Brookhaven's noise ordinance is codified in Chapter 16, Article VII. General quiet hours prohibit disturbing noise in residential areas. Non-commercial lands...
Brookhaven, GA
Brookhaven regulates amplified music under the general noise ordinance. Sound permits available for events. O.C.G.A. §16-11-39 applies to unreasonable distur...
Brookhaven, GA
Parking of RVs, boats, and trailers in Brookhaven residential areas is regulated by the Zoning Ordinance (Ch. 27). Long-term storage in front yards or on pub...
Brookhaven, GA
Street parking in Brookhaven follows standard Georgia parking regulations and city ordinances. No parking within 15 feet of a fire hydrant, no blocking drive...
See how Brookhaven's tree removal permits rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.