Recognizing the significant environmental, economic, and social benefit of trees, the Forsyth County Tree Ordinance provides standards that guide development and incorporate trees into land use planning. Establishing a healthy and sustainable urban and community forest will preserve and enhance the quality of life within the county, while at the same time enhance economic growth and development. The Tree Ordinance requires that all commercial and industrial sites and major residential subdivisions maintain a minimum tree density following development. Tree removal by homeowners on their property is exempt from the requirements of the Tree Ordinance.
Important Links
Staff Contact
Greg Wallace | County Arborist Forsyth County Department of Planning & Community Development 514 W. Maple Street, Suite 302 | Cumming, Georgia 30040 (770) 205-4562 direct | (770) 781-2115 main
Tree Protection Commission
The Forsyth County Tree Protection Commission consists of five members appointed by the Board of Commissioners. They are tasked with reviewing and making recommendations regarding amendments to the Tree Ordinance and hearing any appeal of a decision authorized by the Tree Ordinance.
Members: John Allison Avery Howell
No, you may remove a tree on your residential property without a permit. Trees located in stream buffers or exterior buffers may only be removed if they are dead or hazardous.
Consulting Arborists specialize in individual tree care and provide professional services including tree health evaluation, tree risk assessment and other advice related to tree care. Be sure to hire a Certified Arborist credentialed by the International Society of Arboriculture. An online search for Certified Arborists is available on their website at: http://treesaregood.com/findanarborist/findanarborist.aspx
No, this issue is a civil matter that must be settled between the parties involved or possibly the civil court system.
Timber harvesting and other forestry management practices are permissible only in Agricultural Zoning Districts. Property that has been clear cut is NOT eligible for rezoning for three years following the clear cutting.