Atlanta Tree Protection Regulation

Policy and Purpose: It is the policy of the city that there shall be no net loss of trees within the boundaries of the city. The purpose of this article is to establish the standards necessary to assure that this policy will be realized and that the city will continue to enjoy the benefits provided by its urban forest.

Includes the following provisions:
– Parking lot requirements. This ordinance requires owners of parking lots with 30+ spaces to consult with the city arborist before construction, and plant a minimum of 1 tree per 8 parking spaces, among other requirements.
– Authorization for the mayor to enter into agreements with owners of private property located within the city for the purpose of acquiring easements to plant trees on such property
– A permit is required to remove, destroy, or injure trees by making an application to the city arborist.
– Standards for tree replacement and afforestation requires that each applicant to remove, destroy, or injure trees shall minimize impact to tress and plant replacement trees, either on-site where feasible, or in a local park or public right-of-way. If trees are not replaced, recompense must be paid to a tree trust fund.
– The city arborist shall require property improvements be located such that trees on the site are protected. The arborist must follow guidelines which include limiting removal of trees in wetlands to a maximum of 10%.
– Establishes a Tree Conservation Commission