Do I have to obtain a permit to cut down a tree on my property?
Possibly. Individual homeowners are not required to obtain a tree removal permit unless that tree is located in a required Zoning Buffer, Conservation or Open Space, the Chattahoochee River Corridor or designated Tree Save Area. More information here. Note: preservation of specimen trees is required as of 2007.
Specimen Tree Identification Criteria (meeting both of the following):
1) Tree Size:
- Large Hardwood 28 inch diameter or larger
- Large Softwood 30 inch diameter or larger
- Small Native & Flowering 12 inch diameter or larger
2) Condition:
- A life expectancy of greater than 10 years.
- A sound and solid trunk with no extensive decay or hollow, and less than 20% radial trunk dieback.
- No more than one major and three minor dead limbs (hardwoods only).
- No major insect problem
- No major pathological problem (fungus, virus etc.).
- Small Native Flowering tree if considered a rare species.
- Exceptional quality.
- Of historical significance.
Definitely: If you are involved in construction or land planning, Gwinnett county now requires a Specimen Tree Packet be submitted as part of the permitting.