TREE PRESERVATION

updated February 2021

One of the most iconic things about Atlanta, and Druid Hills in particular, is its incredible tree canopy. Olmsted designed our neighborhood with its beautiful landscape foremost in mind. Read more about his work here! 

As a landscape architect, mature trees and native plantings were important to him, and in turn, to us. Here is our guide to conserving our wonderful trees and a comprehensive list of plantings that Olmsted liked to use, as well as other native plants that will thrive in our community. 

TREE REMOVAL IN DRUID HILLS

Although preserving our trees is extremely important to us, we also know that it is sometimes necessary to remove them. Residents who wish to remove trees in Druid Hills have to follow different ordinances according to whether their property falls within unincorporated DeKalb or City of Atlanta.

UNINCORPORATED DEKALB

Homeowners must get a permit if they want to take down more than 5 small trees, or ANY tree that is greater than 8 inches in diameter when measured at 4.5 ft off the ground. If a permit is necessary, they must apply for one with the county arborist. See the links below for guidance from DeKalb County's arborist.

TREE REMOVAL GUIDE  •  DEKALB COUNTY'S HOMEOWNERS GUIDE TO TREE CARE

CITY OF ATLANTA

In the Landmark District of Druid Hills, a COA is needed to remove any tree with a caliper of 4 or greater. In other parts of Atlanta a resident can pay financial compensation to remove a larger tree but in the Landmark District any tree removed has to be replaced by an acceptable species with a caliper of 1.5 or greater. 

There is a new city Tree Protection Ordinance in the works right now. We will provide further guidance when it becomes available.