Tree Removal Permit - When Do I Need One?
Facing a hazardous or unwanted tree can be stressful for any property owner. Trees that lean dangerously, show signs of disease, or have suffered storm damage pose risks to people, property, and utilities. Many homeowners feel uncertain about legal requirements and worry about fines or delays when considering removal. Knowing when a tree removal permit is required in your city provides clarity, ensures compliance with local regulations, and protects your landscape and neighborhood environment.
permit for tree removal
New Image Tree Solutions gathered information about local permit requirements for tree removal in Roswell, GA, Marietta, GA, and Alpharetta, GA. The following guide explains when permits are necessary, provides contact details for each city’s permitting authorities, and outlines best practices for arborist involvement and safe removal due to storms, disease, or other hazards.
Whenever you have questions or doubts about tree care or removal permits, reach out to us at 404-680-0041 or fill out an online request for a free (no-obligation) inspection and quote.
Tree Removal Permits in Roswell, Georgia
city of roswell permit for tree removal
In the City of Roswell, a tree removal permit may be required if trees meet specific criteria. The Roswell Unified Development Code states that removing trees greater than three inches in diameter at breast height (DBH) or specimen trees typically requires approval through a Tree Removal Permit (often involving a tree survey and tree protection and replacement plans). This ensures that tree loss is managed responsibly and aligned with environmental protection goals.
Homeowners should contact the Roswell Community Development Department or the Engineering Division to confirm whether a permit is needed and to start the application process:
Roswell Community Development - (770) 641-3780
Engineering Division - (770) 641-3780
Contact the City's Landscape Architect - (770) 594-6293
Roswell City Hall, 38 Hill Street, Suite G-30, Roswell, GA 30075
In Roswell, some exemptions may apply for small trees on lots smaller than one acre; however, specimen trees and larger removals generally require formal approval.
Note: For more detailed information, please review Roswell's Unified Development Code Article 12.1.3
Tree Removal Permits in Alpharetta, Georgia
city of alpharetta permit for tree removal
A tree removal permit is required for most types of tree removals within the City of Alpharetta. The City of Alpharetta enforces a comprehensive tree protection ordinance that typically requires a tree removal permit for the removal of any tree within city limits. This applies to most private properties, with emergency or storm damage waivers available when documented. Typically, property owners must submit basic tree details (like the tree’s location, diameter, and reason for removal) before authorization is granted.
For permit inquiries or to submit documentation:
City Arborist - (678) 297-6229
Email - treepermits@alpharetta.ga.us
Alpharetta City Hall - 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta, GA 30009
Visit the City’s Permitting Portal Signup and Login page to get started.
Note: Emergency removals after severe weather may allow for later permit submission if proper documentation is provided promptly.
Tree Removal Permits in Marietta, Georgia
city of marietta permit for tree removal
Marietta’s tree removal rules differ from those of Roswell and Alpharetta in that residential property owners generally do not need a permit to remove trees on single-family properties. However, removal may require approval and a permit when associated with commercial sites, multi-family dwellings, or large land development projects.
Permit applications in Marietta are handled by the Department of Development Services and
Planning & Zoning Office:
Planning & Zoning Office Manager (Shelby Little) - slittle@mariettaga.gov
Phone - (770) 794-5671 or (770) 794-5670
Address - 205 Lawrence Street, Second Floor, Marietta, GA 30060
While homeowners typically do not need a permit, addressing dead, diseased, or hazardous trees responsibly is crucial to avoid liability for resulting damage.
When Tree Removal Permits Are Not Needed
permit for storm damaged tree removal
In any city, certain situations do not require a formal permit:
Dead or severely diseased trees that pose an imminent risk may be removed with documentation rather than an official permit in some cities.
Emergency storm-damaged trees posing immediate danger may be removed with documentation submitted afterward for review, particularly in Alpharetta and other municipalities.
Small trees under size thresholds specified in local ordinances may not require permits.
Always verify your specific local ordinance, as requirements vary by city and tree characteristics.
When to Call an Arborist
An arborist should be consulted when there are:
Tree health problems
Structural issues
Uncertain removal logistics
Certified arborists provide professional assessments that help determine whether removal is necessary, safe, and in compliance with local regulations. They also help document conditions for permit applications when required.
Situations that merit arborist involvement include:
Trees leaning toward structures or utilities
Visible signs of disease, decay, or large dead limbs
Complex removals near roofs, power lines, or other hazards
Clarification of permit necessity and documentation for municipal approval
Why Call New Image Tree Solutions
permit process for tree removal
New Image Tree Solutions combines local expertise with comprehensive arborist credentials to manage permitting, removal, and risk mitigation. Their trained team understands ordinance requirements across Roswell, Marietta, and Alpharetta and can help navigate permit submission, documentation, and compliance.
Property owners benefit from professional evaluations that protect property and reduce liability. New Image Tree Solutions also handles safe tree removal, pruning, storm cleanup, and preventative care while ensuring adherence to municipal standards and best arboricultural practices.
When to Have Trees, Shrubs, and Plants Pruned or Removed
Tree and shrub removal or pruning becomes necessary when:
Storm damage creates structural risk
Disease or insect infestations that threaten overall plant health
Limbs interfering with utilities, walkways, or structures
Trees located too close to buildings create a hazard or foundation issues
Prompt action reduces risk, improves aesthetics, and prevents secondary damage from falling limbs or root disruption.
Key Takeaways for Tree Removal Permit Requirements
permit guide for tree removal
Understanding when a tree removal permit is required helps homeowners avoid fines, compliance issues, and project delays. Requirements vary widely between nearby cities (so local ordinance familiarity is essential before any removal). Planning ahead and consulting local permitting offices can prevent mistakes that lead to penalties or reversals.
In Roswell, tree removal permits are commonly required, especially for larger trees and specimens. Exemptions may exist for small lots and juvenile trees. However, it is always best to contact the community planning office for clarity.
Alpharetta maintains robust permitting for most tree removal projects. Even routine residential removals generally require approval, while emergency documentation may allow later compliance. Arborist documentation supports these applications and speeds up the approval process. Marietta offers more flexibility for single-family properties, allowing many homeowners to manage removals without permits. However, commercial, multi-family, and development-related projects often require official authorization. Permission waivers do exist in most cities for hazardous, storm-damaged trees when immediate removal is necessary for safety. Documenting these conditions with photos and arborist reports helps confirm compliance.
Professional arborist involvement benefits all parties by ensuring decisions are informed, supported by documentation, and comply with local regulations. Arborists also reduce risk during complex removals and help property owners understand when pruning or removal is necessary due to health or hazard concerns.
Do I Need a Tree Removal Permit?
In this article, you discovered tree removal permit requirements in Roswell, Alpharetta, and Marietta, and when such permits are necessary and when exemptions may apply. Property owners learned where to contact local authorities and how arborist involvement supports compliance and safety.
Following proper permitting processes and consulting professionals protects property, prevents fines, and ensures safe, compliant tree removal or pruning.
Failing to understand city requirements can lead to violations, financial penalties, and legal complications. Proactive planning helps homeowners avoid these challenges while caring for their landscape.
Sources:
roswellgov.com/faqs/trees/
alpharetta.ga.us/196/Tree-Removal
mariettaga.gov/295/Applications-Permits
(404) 680-0041