As the oldest city in coastal Georgia, Savannah has an unbelievable and awe-inspiring southern charm. The cobblestone streets, well-landscaped parks, and historic district are a few points that make it a tourist destination. The Spanish moss covered oaks and beautiful magnolia trees create a shaded experience throughout the city that’s hard to forget.

However, for the Savannah and Chatham county residents, this coastal weather and wind can be a destructive force that alters the trees and otherwise beautiful landscapes. After a heavy storm or other natural disaster, it’s imperative that homeowners and businesses can access the Savannah protection ordinance and tree removal permit application.

City of Savannah Tree Removal Process

If a homeowner wants to remove a tree from his/her property or one that is under 10 feet tall, generally a permit is not needed. However, if that tree is partially or entirely on Savannah land, a permit should be acquired.

You and your Tree Service Professional should refer to the city’s Site Development Permit Plan Review Checklist to answer basic questions about the tree, the land and the impact on the surroundings. Even with a completed checklist, the city’s Arborist may have further questions before granting a permit.

City of Savannah Arborist Contact Information

The city of Savannah Park & Tree Department is charged with the protection and maintenance of the city’s parks, trees and greenery. As such, before any landscape projects or tree removal, they should be consulted.

Gordon Denney
City of Savannah
Georgia Arborist Association
Savannah, GA 31401
(912)651-6610

Sources:
http://www.savannahga.gov

This is a summary of the full version found here: https://www.treeremovalpermit.com/georgia/savannah-arborist-protection-ordinance-application/