HOURS OF OPERATION: Sign-in for service (8:15 a.m.-5:00 p.m.)

DIVISION CONTACTS: Click here

ARBORIST DIVISION OVERVIEW

The Arborist Division is charged with protecting the City’s tree canopy on private property throughout the City of Atlanta. Protecting and permitting the removal of trees can be done either under a building permit or through an application to remove a dead, dying, diseased, or hazardous tree.

The Division conducts building plan reviews related to trees, verifies trees to be removed and posts properties prior to tree removal under building permits (this allows the public to appeal decisions). The Arborist Division also inspects dead, dying, diseased and hazardous trees, investigates illegal tree destruction or removal, presents tree related cases to the Tree Conservation Commission, and inspects properties before Final Certificate of Occupancy (CO) certificates are issued.

PERMITS

• To submit application online click here
• To download pdf version of the application click here

ATLANTA TREE STUDIES AND RESEARCH: Click here for details

FORMS, CHECKLISTS, & TREE PROTECTION AND PLANTING DETAILS

• For a complete list of Arborist forms and checklists: Click here

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

• How can I appeal a Decision Made by a City Official Regarding the Removal of Trees?
  Valid appeals must provide evidence based on the City of Atlanta's Tree Ordinance that a city administrative official misinterpreted or misapplied the ordinance or facts material to an issued decision. For information on how to file a tree appeal, see the Tree Conservation Commission or call 404-330-6235.
• How can I report a problem or complaint regarding trees?
  To report a problem or complaint regarding trees (illegal activity or destruction, dying trees on private property, improper construction fencing, etc.), please email arborist.dpcd@atlantaga.gov or call (404) 330-6874. A record will be created in Accela Citizens Access (ACA) for tracking purposes. You can check status by logging into ACA or by calling the Arborist Division.

TREES NOT LOCATED ON PRIVATE PROPERTY

•  The Office of Parks in the Department of Parks and Recreation is responsible for trees located in city parks, public space, and right-of-ways (street trees). They can be reached at (404) 546-6813.

TREE ORDINANCE
Download and view a free copy of the City of Atlanta Tree Ordinance.

URBAN TREE CANOPY 

The current state of our City's urban tree canopy.

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