In the fall of 2018, the Tree Next Door released the following flyer to itemize some key ways the current tree ordinance is not being enforced. Since then, very little has changed as city resources appear to be directed exclusively towards the rewrite of the tree ordinance vs. enforcing the tree ordinance they already have. However, an unenforced ordinance in an ineffective ordinance. The current draft outline of the new tree ordinance that City Planning presented the week of June 3, 2019 contains no information as to how the City plans to enforce the new tree ordinance.

Regardless of how the new tree ordinance is rewritten, the following unenforced sections of the current tree ordinance will still apply. The time to address the enforcement issues is now, not after the tree ordinance is rewritten.

We Can’t Wait for a New Tree Ordinance

Trees are Coming

Down Now

Due to Lack of Tree Ordinance Enforcement

There’s talk of a new tree ordinance, but that could take up to TWO YEARS to implement, if implemented at all. Meanwhile, look around. Trees are coming down right now because our current tree ordinance isn’t being enforced. We can’t wait. The current ordinance must be enforced NOW to protect Atlanta’s trees. 

Did You Know That…

“Saved” trees are being destroyed…
due to lack of proper tree fencing?

Destroyed trees on public property aren’t being counted…
because the Department of Parks and Recreation doesn't produce quarterly reports?

We don’t know about planned tree removals…
because there is no direct way to see the tree removal sign postings online?

No one is planning for Atlanta’s future tree canopy…
because no one is working on a master plan?

Standards are not being consistently followed…
when it comes to assessing dead, dying, or hazardous trees?

These things are required by the current

Atlanta Tree Protection Ordinance,

but they’re not happening.

Please call or write:

David Zaparanick, Arboricultural Manager
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404-330-6874

Tim Keane, Commissioner of Planning
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404-330-6037

and tell them to start enforcing our Tree Ordinance!