Atlanta’s Updated Tree Ordinance: What Every Homeowner Should Know

Atlanta has long been known as the “City in a Forest,” but its tree canopy has declined notably—down to around 46.5% in 2018 from nearly 48% in 2008, with recent data showing it remains below 45%. To reverse the trend, a revised Tree Protection Ordinance (TPO) was passed on June 16, 2025, and takes effect January 1, 2026.

Why This Matters

Trees deliver essential benefits: shade, cooling, stormwater control, wildlife habitat, and enhanced property values. Losing too many canopy trees disrupts Atlanta’s ecosystem—and that’s exactly what prompted this updated legislation.

What’s New in the Ordinance

  • Recompense (Tree Removal Fee): Jumping from approximately $30 per trunk-inch (plus a flat fee) to $140 per inch, indexed to inflation after 2027.

  • Illegal Removal Fines:

    • Increased to $200,000 per acre.

    • Individuals face $500 for first offenses, $1,000 for subsequent ones.

  • Per-Acre Compensation Caps: Now range from $12,500–$35,000, depending on zoning.

  • Tree Trust Fund Boost: $400,000 annually to aid low-income and senior homeowners.

  • Incentives for Developers: Replanted trees earning 125% credit against recompense for affordable housing projects and plant-oversize credits ensure more planting.

  • Arborist Registration: Permits now require a registrant from the city’s Arborist Division.

Healthy vs. Dead Trees: What You Need to Know

Healthy trees (and even some diagnosably dying ones) removed under the ordinance do require recompense, meaning you must plant replacement trees or pay the fee. This doesn’t apply to trees identified and permitted as dead, dying, or hazardous (DDH).

This makes assessing your trees’ health—and their canopy impact—crucial before planning removals. ServeScape’s arborists can evaluate whether your tree is truly exempt or if removal will trigger recompense.

Plans for Replanting and Canopy Restoration

If healthy trees are removed, replacement is required—whether by planting on-site or paying the repercussion. These funds support planting in other neighborhoods to maintain canopy health . Replant wisely (e.g., native oaks, maples, serviceberries) to restore long-term canopy value.  If you need help choosing approved replacement plants, you can view our Atlanta Tree Collection.

ServeScape’s recommended species for replanting:

Your Next Steps

  1. Inventory your landscape: Identify healthy, marginal, and hazardous trees.

  2. Consult an Arborist: Determine if removal triggers recompense—or qualifies for DDH exemption.

  3. Plan for Replanting: Choose species suited to your site and permitted under the ordinance.

  4. Explore funding aid: Especially if you're a senior or low-income homeowner.

  5. Use professional design tools: ServeScape can help structure a canopy-responsible planting plan.

Final Thoughts

With this updated Tree Ordinance, Atlanta is reclaiming its commitment to canopy health—and it asks that we do the same. Thoughtful assessment, replanting, and compliance aren’t just legal steps—they're acts of stewardship. ServeScape is here to support homeowners through evaluation, plant selection, and planting plans that meet both city goals and yard needs.

Let's grow Atlanta’s legacy, one tree at a time.

 

🌱 How ServeScape Can Help

ServeScape is your local online marketplace for plants, design, and installation—connecting you directly to Georgia’s best growers and landscape professionals. Whether you’re navigating a tree removal permit, planning a replanting strategy, or designing a resilient landscape that meets city requirements, our team can help you every step of the way.

Here’s what we offer:

  • Expert Guidance: Our designers and horticulturists can recommend replacement trees that meet City of Atlanta recompense standards and thrive in your unique conditions.

  • Easy Ordering: Shop locally grown trees and plants online at servescape.com, delivered directly to your property.

  • One-Click Installation: From permit-compliant replanting to full-scale landscape projects, our vetted installation partners handle the heavy lifting.

  • Design Services: Need help visualizing your new landscape? Our design studio can create custom plans that balance beauty, sustainability, and municipal compliance.

Whether you’re removing one tree or planning a full landscape renovation, ServeScape helps you turn city requirements into opportunities to restore, refresh, and reimagine your outdoor space.

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