Does the Atlanta Tree Protection Ordinance affect my remodel?
Answered by AskBaily Editorial · Updated
Short answer
Yes — Atlanta has one of the strongest tree ordinances in the US. Chapter 158 protects every healthy tree >= 6 inches trunk diameter (DBH), and removal requires an arborist letter plus Board of Arborists review. Boundary trees, recompense fees ($30/inch DBH or in-kind replacement), and construction-impact inside the critical root zone all trigger review. Additions, ADUs, and new footprints routinely hit this.
In detail
Yes — Atlanta has one of the strongest tree ordinances in the US. Chapter 158 protects every healthy tree >= 6 inches trunk diameter (DBH), and removal requires an arborist letter plus Board of Arborists review. Boundary trees, recompense fees ($30/inch DBH or in-kind replacement), and construction-impact inside the critical root zone all trigger review. Additions, ADUs, and new footprints routinely hit this.
This answer is part of AskBaily's atlanta regulatory knowledge base. For deeper context — including current code-section references, agency contact details, and recent policy changes — see the [atlanta city hub](/atlanta) or [the /ask hub](/ask) for related questions.
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