Alpharetta Tree Density Requirements
Alpharetta does not only regulate individual trees; it also expects developed lots to keep a minimum amount of tree cover. That standard, called tree density, is part of the City's tree conservation rules in UDC §3.2 and its accompanying guidance document. Whether you can remove a non-specimen tree without replanting often depends on it.
This guide explains the calculation and how it affects homeowners.
What tree density means
The City's guidance defines tree density as a measurement of trees on a property expressed in inches per acre. Existing trees are measured by diameter at breast height (DBH), 4.5 feet above the ground. New trees are counted by caliper. Trees on your lot, and trees in the right-of-way in front of it, may count toward the requirement.
The 130 inches per acre standard
The guidance document's standard calculation is SDF minus EDF equals RDF. SDF, the site density factor, is the property's acreage multiplied by 130 inches. EDF, the existing density factor, is the total DBH of trees being kept. RDF, the replacement density factor, is the inches of new trees to plant if existing trees fall short. On a 15,000-square-foot lot (0.34 acre), the required density is 0.34 × 130, or about 44 inches.
How it affects removal permits
UDC §3.2.4 directs the City to issue a permit for removing a non-specimen tree as long as the tree is not a required landscape strip tree, buffer tree or other code-required tree and the applicable minimum tree density is maintained. If removal would drop the lot below the standard, expect a replanting requirement. Dead, damaged or diseased trees are handled under a separate permit category.
Working through an example
Say a 0.5-acre lot needs 65 inches. The homeowner keeps an 18-inch oak and a 14-inch maple and removes a 20-inch pine. Remaining density is 32 inches, so 33 inches of replacement trees are needed, for example eleven 3-inch caliper trees. Real calculations should follow the City's current guidance and can include canopy-based alternatives; ask the City Arborist if your situation is unusual.
Practical tips
Measure trunks before applying, photograph the trees you are keeping, and plan replacement planting locations away from foundations, septic areas and utilities. Choose species suited to North Fulton clay and the space available.
Published tree service cost estimates
| Service | Published range | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Tree removal, up to 30 ft | $150–$450 | Angi 2026 |
| Tree removal, 30–60 ft | $450–$1,200 | Angi 2026 |
| Tree removal, 60–80 ft | $800–$1,500 | Angi 2026 |
| Tree removal, over 80 ft | $1,000–$2,000+ | Angi 2026 |
| Pine tree removal | $250–$1,500 | Angi 2026 |
| Stump grinding | $120–$400 per stump (about $2–$5 per inch of diameter) | Angi 2026 |
| Tree trimming, 25–50 ft tree | $150–$800 | Angi 2026 |
| Crane service when needed | about $500, or $250–$600 per day | Angi 2026 |
| Arborist report (where a municipality requires one) | about $860 average | Angi 2026 |
Sources: Angi: Tree removal cost (2026); Angi: Stump grinding cost (2026); Angi: Tree trimming cost (2026). Figures are published national or regional estimates compiled by those sites, labeled as estimates; they are not quotes and not prices from any provider on this site. Alpharetta's tree removal permit application has no submission fee according to the City's instructions; arborist reports and replanting are separate costs.
Local rules and code references
- City of Alpharetta UDC §3.2.4, permit for non-development activity (Municode): a tree removal permit is required except for routine pruning and exemptions; the application needs the reason and a sketch or photo identifying size and species; specimen trees need a risk assessment by a qualified professional; complete applications are decided within 10 working days; permits are issued for dead, damaged or diseased trees and for non-specimen trees if minimum density is maintained.
- City of Alpharetta UDC §3.2, Tree Conservation, Landscape, and Buffer Requirements (Municode): defines specimen trees by species and trunk diameter (for example 30 inches for pines, 24 inches for most other overstory genera, 8 inches for understory trees) and sets tree protection and density rules.
- City of Alpharetta Guidance Document for UDC Article III §3.2: tree density standard of 130 inches per acre (SDF − EDF = RDF), specimen tree health assessment at ISA Level 2 or higher, and tree care under ANSI A300 standards.
- City of Alpharetta Online Tree Removal Permit Application Instructions: how to apply through the City's online permit portal under the Tree Permits category.
Code text and department procedures change; confirm current requirements with the jurisdiction before work starts.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the tree density requirement in Alpharetta?
- The City's guidance document for UDC §3.2 uses a standard of 130 inches per acre, calculated from the trunk diameters of existing trees and the caliper of new trees.
- How do I calculate tree density for my lot?
- Multiply your acreage by 130 to get the required inches, subtract the DBH of trees you are keeping, and the remainder is the inches of replacement trees needed.
- Do trees in the right-of-way count?
- According to the City's guidance, trees in the right-of-way in front of the property may count toward density or canopy coverage.
- Can I remove a tree if my lot meets density?
- For non-specimen trees that are not required buffer or landscape trees, UDC §3.2.4 directs the City to issue a permit when minimum density is maintained.
- How are new trees measured?
- By caliper, while existing trees are measured by diameter at breast height (4.5 feet).
- Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Alpharetta?
- Usually yes. UDC §3.2.4 requires a tree removal permit for non-development tree removal, except routine or seasonal pruning and listed exemptions. Apply through the City's online permit portal.
Related local guides
- Alpharetta Tree Pruning Rules
- Alpharetta Tree Removal Cost Guide
- City of Alpharetta Tree Removal Permit Rules
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