A permit is required to remove, destroy or injure any tree on city-owned property, regardless of size, or any tree of 6 inch or greater diameter at breast height (DBH) on private property. There are no exceptions, either by species or present condition. Even dead trees require a permit for removal. [Sec. 158-29; Sec. 158-101(a)].

The City of Atlanta now has an online application procedure for requesting tree removal permits. To request a permit, you must first register with the city via their the City of Atlanta's Citizen Gateway.  Once you have registered, you can apply for various permit types which include the following:

• Dead, dying, diseased or hazardous (DDDH) tree
• Building construction, renovation or demolition
• Landscape
• Silvicultural
• Location to house
• Nuisance tree
• Undesirable species

All requirements of the Tree Protection Ordinance must be met and -- with the exception of DDDH trees -- a tree replacement plan must be approved.  In the case of building permits, the tree must be located within the buildable area of the lot or in the setback or required yard areas that must be used for driveways or utilities that cannot be accomplished through any other means. [Sec. 158-102(a)(1-3)]