Peachtree City has revised its rules regarding tree removal on private property.
The City Council approved ordinance changes on June 7 that require a permit for removing any understory tree more than eight inches in circumference or a canopy tree more than 18 inches around. The ordinance also defines “specimen trees” as those having a circumference of eight inches for understory trees (such as dogwoods and cherries), 20 inches for most hardwoods (except sweetgums, which were designated at 24 inches) and 24 inches for softwoods.
Specimen trees can only be removed if they are dead or dying, are in the way of a utility line, are in a construction zone, impose an economic burden or pose an immediate hazard to life or safety. Violators are subject to citations and penalties, and contractors who violate the ordinance more than three times will not be issued cutting permits for one year.
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