Decatur has new rules regarding tree canopy conservation, according to the city’s Facebook page at bit.ly/3YQWIAJ.

Among the changes are:

• Residents may no longer remove three healthy trees every 18 months.

• A minimum tree canopy coverage of 60% is required on single-family residential properties.

• All permitting is now submitted/reviewed online through Community Core permitting.

• A tree permit is required to remove dead, diseased and/or hazardous trees. City arborists are available to assist in permitting the removal of dead trees.

• Any demolition, building or development activity must comply with requirements of the Tree Canopy Conservation Ordinance.

For more information on Decatur’s tree ordinance and Community Core, visit decaturga.com/trees.

Go to decaturga.com/nrg for an updated copy of Decatur’s New Resident Guide.

About the Author

Keep Reading

A 3-year-old boy died Wednesday after accidentally shooting himself in East Point, police said. (Courtesy of Channel 2 Action News)

Credit: Channel 2 Action News

Featured

The city of Brookhaven's mayor and City Council last week decided to remove the colored panes of glass from the dome of Brookhaven's new City Centre after residents objected to the brightness of the colors, seen here Friday, June 27, 2025. (Reed Williams/AJC)

Credit: Reed Williams/AJC