Tree Removal Permit - Smyrna, Georgia
Smyrna, Georgia, located in Cobb County just northwest of Atlanta, blends rich history with modern suburban life. Originally established as a railroad town in the late 19th century, Smyrna grew through industry and community development into a vibrant city known for tree-lined streets, mixed residential and commercial districts, and annual cultural events that celebrate local heritage. Its landscape balances urban progress with abundant green space, making effective tree management essential for both residents and developers.
From a horticultural and climatic standpoint, Smyrna lies within USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 8a, where winter lows typically dip into the low teens and summer highs often reach the mid to upper 80s. Long, warm summers and mild winters support a diverse palette of tree species, including oaks, hickories, maples, and pines. These conditions also influence how trees grow, thrive, and sometimes struggle from pests, storm impacts, or environmental stress. Understanding local weather patterns and seasonal shifts helps property owners anticipate tree care needs and regulatory timing.
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New Image Tree Solutions gathered tree permit information about when a tree removal permit is required, how to navigate Smyrna’s regulatory framework, whom to contact, and when professional arborist involvement is recommended to assist property owners and developers in staying compliant with city standards while protecting landscape value.
When a Tree Removal Permit Is Required
In Smyrna, the Tree Conservation and Replacement ordinance (Chapter 106, Vegetation) mandates permits for removing regulated trees on private property and development sites. This ordinance aims to conserve healthy tree canopy and ensure thoughtful replacement or mitigation when trees are removed.
Click Here to Apply Online for a Tree Assessment Report
Regulated Tree Criteria
A Tree Removal Permit is required when removing any tree that meets specific size thresholds. According to city standards and local permitting guidance:
Trees 24 inches DBH (Diameter at Breast Height) or larger must be permitted before removal.
Trees smaller than 24 inches DBH generally do not require a permit when removed on most single-family residential lots.
Note: DBH is measured at 4.5 feet above the ground, following standard arboricultural practice for determining tree size.
Permit Documentation and Applications
To request a Tree Removal Permit, applicants must use Smyrna’s online permitting portal managed by the Community Development Department and Arborist Division. A formal application typically includes:
Property information and owner contact details.
Identification and location of trees proposed for removal (species, DBH, photos or a site plan).
If applicable, additional documentation such as a development tree protection plan or replacement strategy.
Payment of applicable fees (confirm current fee with the Arborist Division).
Click Here to Apply Online for a Tree Removal Permit
Tree removal under this ordinance also involves ensuring that the tree density requirements for the site are met either through preservation of other trees or tree replacement following city standards.
When a Permit Is Not Required
While Smyrna regulates larger tree removals, there are scenarios where city permits are not required:
Trees under 24 inches DBH removed on typical residential lots usually do not need a permit.
Trees that are dead, dying, or hazardous, where risk to life or property exists, can often be removed under a hazard exemption. However, best practice is to document the condition with a qualified arborist and notify the city to avoid misunderstanding.
Routine pruning and maintenance that does not remove regulated trees or impact DBH criteria.
Even when a permit is not strictly required, property owners should confirm eligibility with the Arborist Division before removal. This reduces potential enforcement actions or post-work compliance issues.
City Arborist and Permit Contacts
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For tree removal and permit guidance in Smyrna, these are your main points of contact:
City of Smyrna Arborist Division (Community Development)
Arborist Contact: Lacey Fournier, ISA Certified Arborist #GO-0023A
Department Website: https://www.smyrnaga.gov/business/community-development/arborist-division-2525
Permit & Assessment Portal: https://smyrnaga.portal.opengov.com/categories/1085
Community Development Department
Main Office: 3155 Atlanta Road SE, Smyrna, GA
Phone (General Permitting): 678-631-5387
The Arborist Division reviews permit applications, oversees tree assessments, and assists with ordinance interpretation. For procedural questions or clarifications about tree replacement requirements and tree bank options, contacting the Arborist Division directly is recommended.
When to Call an Arborist
Engaging a certified arborist is advisable in multiple circumstances:
Uncertain Tree Health: When you are unsure if a tree is diseased, dying, or hazardous, a professional evaluation clarifies whether removal is necessary and supports hazard documentation.
Specimen or Large Trees: Trees near or above the 24-inch DBH threshold, especially on complex sites, benefit from arborist assessment before permit submission.
Land Development Projects: Tree surveys and protection plans for development often require arborist involvement to prepare site plans and mitigation strategies that satisfy city requirements.
Storm, Pest, or Disease Impact: Trees compromised by storm damage, insect infestation, or disease often need professional risk assessment and recommendations.
Arborists provide scientifically grounded analysis and documentation in line with International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) standards that help streamline permit processing and avoid costly errors.
Why Call New Image Tree Solutions (404) 680-0041
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Working with experienced tree care professionals like New Image Tree Solutions brings several advantages to property owners and developers in Smyrna:
Expert Arborist Knowledge: Certified arborists help interpret local ordinance nuances, prepare accurate documentation, and support complex tree removal or protection plans.
Permit Assistance and Navigation: Guidance through online applications, contact with city officials, and tailored documentation reduces delays and compliance hurdles.
Safe Tree Work: Professional crews handle pruning, removal, and debris management with industry-standard equipment and safety protocols.
Storm and Emergency Response: When severe weather damages trees, prompt response helps mitigate hazards before they escalate.
Partnering with trained professionals reduces liability, ensures adherence to local regulations, and preserves landscape value.
When to Have Trees, Shrubs, and Plants Pruned or Removed
Understanding when to take action helps maintain a healthy landscape and avoid costly issues later:
Storm Damage
Trees weakened by high winds, heavy rains, or lightning strikes often suffer split limbs or root damage. Pruning or removal can prevent property damage and personal injury.
Pest Infestation
Insects like borers or diseases such as fungal infections weaken tree structure. Affected trees often exhibit canopy thinning, premature leaf drop, or visible decay, indicating professional evaluation is needed.
Structural Decline
Signs like large dead branches, hollowed trunks, or severe lean indicate structural risk that may justify removal. Professional assessment helps determine if pruning or full removal is appropriate.
Permit Not Needed Examples
Removing a small non-regulated tree under 24 inches DBH on a single-family lot.
Pruning for health and aesthetics that does not remove regulated trees.
Hazard pruning where the tree remains viable and is not a DBH-regulated removal.
Consulting with professionals ensures proper care while minimizing unnecessary removal.
Key Takeaways for Smyrna Tree Removal Permit Requirements
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Understanding Smyrna’s tree removal regulatory framework helps property owners and developers manage landscapes responsibly while avoiding compliance issues. Here’s a consolidated summary of essential points:
Permit Requirements are Size-Based: Smyrna’s ordinance requires a Tree Removal Permit for any tree that is 24 inches DBH or larger. Trees below this threshold typically can be removed without a formal permit on residential sites.
Tree Assessment and Documentation Supports Compliance: A permit application benefits from arborist reports, site plans, and accurate DBH measurements to ensure correct categorization and permit processing.
Hazard or Risk Justification Can Ease Permit Decisions: Trees that are dead, dying, or hazardous often qualify for removal under exemptions when properly documented by a qualified arborist.
Replacement or Mitigation is Often Required: When healthy trees above regulated size are removed, Smyrna typically requires tree replacement on site or contribution to a tree bank, helping sustain city canopy goals.
Professional Arborist Assistance Adds Value: Arborists can help identify health issues, interpret local codes, prepare necessary documents, and recommend the most effective pathway for tree care or removal.
City Arborist Division is Your Primary Resource: The Arborist Division in the Community Development Department handles permit review, tree assessments, and ordinance questions.
By proactively engaging with the permit process and professional guidance, residents and developers align with Smyrna’s conservation goals and avoid unnecessary penalties or rework.
Smyrna Tree Removal Requirements
In this article, you discovered Smyrna’s approach to tree removal, including when permits are required, what documentation is needed, where to seek help, and how professional arborists enhance compliance and safety. You learned about size thresholds, hazard exemptions, city contacts, and practical guidance to manage trees on your property responsibly.
Following these steps brings clarity, reduces risk, preserves valuable landscape assets, and ensures that tree work proceeds without conflict with local regulations. Proper planning and execution help maintain tree canopy, support healthy ecosystems, and protect personal and community property.
Failing to comply with Smyrna’s tree removal requirements can result in fines, double replacement obligations, enforcement actions, and unnecessary project delays. Staying informed safeguards your investment and avoids adverse outcomes later.
Sources:
smyrnaga.gov/business/community-development/arborist-division-2525
planthardiness.ars.usda.gov
gatrees.org/urban-community-forestry
(404) 680-0041