Chattanooga regulates removal of protected trees on commercial, multi-family, and developed lots through its Tree Ordinance. Owners must obtain a tree removal permit or face replacement requirements measured in inches of trunk caliper.
Under the city Tree Ordinance administered by the Public Works Urban Forestry team, any tree six inches or larger DBH on commercial or institutional property requires a permit before removal. Single-family residential lots are largely exempt unless tied to a development permit. Replacement is typically two-for-one for trees under 24 inches and inch-for-inch above that. Heritage species such as white oak, tulip poplar, and dogwood receive added protection. Approved replacements draw from the city Recommended Tree List.
Civil penalties up to 500 dollars per tree per day, mandatory replacement at full caliper inches, and potential withholding of certificate of occupancy on connected projects.
Chattanooga, TN
Chattanooga does not impose a blanket spay or neuter mandate, but McKamey Animal Center sterilizes shelter pets before adoption and offers low-cost clinics f...
Chattanooga, TN
Chattanooga encourages microchipping for dogs and cats handled by McKamey Animal Center, and impounded animals are scanned for chips before adoption or eutha...
Chattanooga, TN
Chattanooga regulates vegetation through Chapter 21 (Property Maintenance), Article IV (Exterior Requirements), which requires that grass, underbrush, and we...
Chattanooga, TN
Chattanooga sits in a moderate wildland-urban interface along Lookout Mountain, Signal Mountain, and Stringer’s Ridge, and CFD coordinates with TN Division o...
Chattanooga, TN
Chattanooga Fire Department enforces the adopted Tennessee Fire Code on residential propane cylinder storage, capping above-ground container size and requiri...
Chattanooga, TN
Chattanooga has no general City Code ordinance restricting lawn ornaments, garden statues, or yard decorations on private residential property. Items must re...
See how Chattanooga'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 If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.