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.
DeKalb County, GA
Construction noise in unincorporated DeKalb County is regulated under Ch. 16, Art. VII, §16-304. Construction and demolition activities (pile drivers, pneuma...
DeKalb County, GA
DeKalb County noise ordinance §16-304 specifically limits animal vocalizations in residential areas: pets may not vocalize continuously for more than 15 minu...
DeKalb County, GA
DeKalb County noise ordinance (Ch. 16, Art. VII) applies to unincorporated areas. Quiet hours: 11:00 PM–7:00 AM in residential areas — it is unlawful to crea...
DeKalb County, GA
Dekalb County regulates amplified music under the general noise ordinance. Sound permits available for events. O.C.G.A. §16-11-39 applies to unreasonable dis...
DeKalb County, GA
Recreational vehicles and trailers in residential zones of unincorporated DeKalb County are subject to zoning ordinance (Ch. 27) standards. Long-term RV stor...
DeKalb County, GA
Street parking in unincorporated DeKalb County follows Georgia vehicle code and county ordinances. No parking within 15 feet of fire hydrants, no blocking dr...
See how DeKalb County's tree removal permits rules stack up against other locations.
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