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1. Do I need a permit to remove trees from my property?

It will depend on the size of your lot, where the tree(s) are located and what your zoning is. Please refer to the Tree Removal Flowchart to determine if a permit is necessary to remove trees from your property.

Tree Removal Flowchart

2. My neighbor has a dangerous tree; can you make them remove it for me?

Athens Clarke County does not have the ability to mandate tree removal. If the tree poses a threat to streets, sidewalks, or utilities, the Community Forester can evaluate the tree and issue a notification letter via certified mail. If public property is not at risk, the Community Forester can provide a limited evaluation, but a notification letter will not be issued. Additional information:

Trees & the Law

3. Why aren't businesses keeping trees when they develop?

Most of the time, businesses are conserving trees during development. Many times the conserved trees are found around the perimeter of the property or in other areas where the least amount of disturbance during construction will occur. Since property boundaries are not always clear, it can be difficult to ascertain just how much canopy is being conserved. Occasionally there are site constraints - such as a lack of existing trees or sidewalk, building setback and stormwater requirements - that make it impossible for trees to be conserved. When this is the case, an administrative waiver can be issued by the Planning Director and additional plantings are used to mitigate for missing canopy.

4. Can someone come and take a look at my tree?

The Community Tree Program offers tree management consultations to Athens-Clarke County residents to help with their management objectives. There is no charge for our staff to come meet with you as these consultations are a tax-funded service. Please contact Landscape Management staff to schedule a consultation.

Landscape Management

5. Are trees in historic districts protected?

At this time, only trees in the Tree Preservation Area located along Milledge Avenue between West Broad Street and Lumpkin Street are protected. The Tree Preservation Area is located between the front facade of the principal building on the lot and the front property line and any tree 8" in diameter or larger are protected. These trees require a separate permit and approval from the Planning Department prior to removal.

Tree Removal Flowchart

6. Can you recommend a tree service for me?

Athens-Clarke County does not endorse any particular tree service; however we do recommend that you consider using a Certified Arborist for work on living trees. Check out the ISA website to find a Certified Arborist in our area:

International Society of Arboriculture website

7. Are the utility companies allowed to prune my trees?

Yes, utility line clearing is necessary to keep service reliable, trees healthy and people safe. Pruning methods are regulated by Athens-Clarke County. 

8. What kind of tree should I plant?

Tree species selection depends on a number of factors including your location and your objectives. Use our ACC Tree Species list to find a tree that best fits your needs and have fun with it!

ACC Tree Species List

9. When is the best time to plant a tree?

The best time to plant a tree in our region is from November to early March, when the trees are dormant. Dormancy occurs after the leaves have dropped in the fall and before the new buds break in the spring.