Tree Removal Permit - Marietta, Georgia
Marietta, Georgia, sits near the center of Cobb County in northwest metro Atlanta, about 20 miles from downtown Atlanta. This historic city traces its roots to the 1830s and played roles in early state politics, the Civil War, and regional development. Marietta combines rich architectural heritage with modern community growth while preserving parks and green spaces that define its residential character.
Marietta lies in USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 8a, meaning average annual extreme minimum temperatures range roughly from 10 °F to 15 °F. The local climate is humid subtropical: summers are hot and humid with average highs in the 80s °F (often near 90 °F) and frequent summer rainfall. Winters are generally mild with average highs in the 50s °F and lows near freezing, and only occasional light snowfall.
tree removal permit marietta georgia
New Image Tree Solutions gathered essential tree permit information about Marietta’s tree removal requirements, arborist resources, and when a permit is or isn’t necessary so property owners and professionals can navigate the process confidently.
Marietta Tree Removal Permits - When They’re Required
Within Marietta city limits, tree removal rules vary depending on property type and circumstances:
Click here to download Marietta’s Tree Removal Permit form
Residential Single-Family Properties
No general permit requirement exists for homeowners wishing to remove trees on their own residential lot. Property owners can typically remove trees without notifying the city.
However, address hazardous trees (dead, dying, diseased, or structurally unsound) responsibly. Failure to act may be considered negligence if a tree later causes damage.
Commercial, Multi-Family, and Apartment Properties
Tree removal permits are required for non-emergency tree removal or landscape improvement efforts on commercial or multi-family parcels.
Before removal, applicants must submit a Tree Removal Permit Application along with supporting documentation such as site plans, tree species information, diameter measurements, health reports from an arborist or landscape architect, and photographs.
Trees in Public Spaces or Rights-of-Way
Trees adjacent to streets, in the public right-of-way, or on city-owned land generally require coordination with city departments before removal. Emergencies like storm damage should be reported to the Streets Division.
Specimen and Protected Trees
Large or significant specimen trees on certain properties may receive additional consideration under Marietta’s Tree Protection and Landscaping Ordinance; removal may involve stricter review and replacement requirements.
Where to Apply and Key City Contacts
tree removal permit marietta georgia city hall
For permit and tree-related inquiries:
Click here to download Marietta’s Tree Removal Permit form
City of Marietta - Planning & Zoning/Development Services
Shelby Little - Planning & Zoning Office Manager
Email: slittle@mariettaga.gov
Phone: 770-794-5671
Address: 205 Lawrence Street, Second Floor, Marietta, GA 30060
Additional Contacts
Rusty Roth - Development Services, Planning & Zoning
Email: rroth@mariettaga.gov
Phone: 770-794-5670
Rich Deckman - Parks & Open Space Manager
Email: rdeckman@mariettaga.gov
Phone: 770-794-5607
Donnie Lyle - Street Supervisor
Phone: 770-794-5678
Applications and documentation can be submitted in person, by mail, by fax (770-794-5655), or by email to the contacts above.
When a Permit Isn’t Typically Needed
Property owners usually do not need a tree removal permit when:
Removing trees on residential private property not subject to development review.
Trees have fallen due to a storm or emergency and pose an immediate hazard; report the incident promptly if removal occurs without prior city contact.
Trees are in poor health or dead and removal is necessary for safety and there’s no land-disturbing activity requiring broader permitting.
Always verify individual circumstances with city staff before beginning removal.
When to Call an Arborist
tree removal permit information marietta georgia
Even when permits aren’t required, certified arborists bring crucial expertise:
Tree health assessment: Identify disease, pest damage, and structural issues early.
Documentation support: Provide arborist reports required for commercial permits or insurance claims.
Complex removals: Recommend safe removal strategies for large trees near structures, utilities, or steep terrain.
Storm damage response: Evaluate risks after severe weather and document hazardous conditions for any necessary city reporting.
If you’re uncertain about a tree’s condition, calling a professional arborist ahead of removal reduces risk and supports compliance with local regulations.
Why Call New Image Tree Solutions (404) 680-0041
Choosing New Image Tree Solutions ensures:
Regulatory Guidance: Assistance navigating Marietta’s permit process, including documentation and submission tips.
Certified Arbor Expertise: Arborist evaluations that clarify whether removal, pruning, or preservation makes sense.
Safety and Compliance: Professional crews that follow industry standards for safe tree removal and debris management.
Emergency Support: Rapid response when storm damage creates hazards threatening life or property.
Our team combines local knowledge with arboricultural proficiency to protect your investment and keep landscapes healthy.
When to Have Trees, Shrubs, and Plants Pruned or Removed
Natural Causes
Storm damage: Broken limbs, cracked trunks, or root destabilization from high winds.
Disease or infestation: Infections or pests that compromise structural integrity.
Death or decline: Trees that no longer exhibit healthy growth and pose a safety concern.
Landscape Management
Overcrowding: Trees and shrubs too close together or competing for light and soil nutrients.
Construction impact: Roots damaged by excavation or heavy equipment.
Risk to structures: Roots threatening foundations, walkways, or utilities.
Examples When Permits Are Not Needed
A homeowner removes a diseased or dead tree on residential property.
A limb breaks in a storm and the tree must be trimmed back to safeguard the property.
Seasonal pruning for health and clearance when no land disturbance is involved.
Even when permits are not required, documenting health concerns and conditions can help avoid future liability.
Key Takeaways for Marietta Tree Removal Permit Requirements
tree removal permit requirements marietta georgia
Understanding Marietta’s tree removal process helps property owners and professionals mitigate risk and comply with city requirements. Here’s what matters most:
Residential vs. Commercial Rules: Homeowners generally may remove trees on their private lots without permits, while commercial and multi-family properties require a permit for non-emergency removal.
Hazard and Emergency Trees: If a tree is dead, diseased, or presents an imminent hazard, it must be addressed. If removal happens before city review due to immediate danger, document the conditions and notify appropriate city departments.
Public Property and Right-of-Way: Trees within public easements, streets, or parks are subject to city oversight. Contact the Streets Division or Parks Department before work begins.
Permit Submission Details: Permit applications require tree location, species, diameter at breast height, photographs, and arborist reports. Expect a standard review period (about 10 business days).
Specimen Tree Considerations: Larger or significant trees may be protected and require special review; preservation is encouraged.
Arborist Role: Consulting a certified arborist can clarify tree health, support permit documentation, and improve safety when trees are near structures or utilities.
Liability Awareness: Failing to address dangerous trees on your property may lead to liability for resulting damages, even if no permit was required initially.
Understanding these requirements and engaging professionals when needed promotes safe, lawful, and sustainable tree management in Marietta.
Tree Removal Permit Requirements for Marietta, Ga
In this article you discovered how Marietta handles tree removal permits, where permits are necessary, when they’re not, and how city departments can support your project from planning through compliance. You also learned when arborist expertise benefits your decision-making and how expert services from New Image Tree Solutions can streamline the process.
Taking the right steps ensures healthier landscapes, smoother permit approvals, and safer properties with reduced risk of fines or delays. Hiring qualified experts and letting the city review required applications gives you confidence that tree removal is lawful, safe, and efficient.
Conversely, neglecting to follow these guidelines can cause costly setbacks, regulatory violations, and even legal liability if hazardous trees cause injury or damage without proper documentation or professional oversight.
Sources:
mariettaga.gov/295/Applications-Permits
planthardiness.ars.usda.gov
gatrees.org/urban-community-forestry
(404) 680-0041