Arborist Division

The Arborist Division is charged with implementing the Tree Protection Ordinance and protecting the City’s tree canopy on private properties and new developments in the City of Stonecrest. Protecting and permitting the removal of trees can be done with notification, a building permit, or through an application to remove a dead, dying, diseased, or hazardous tree.

ARTICLES VI. - TREE PROTECTION 

Sec. 14-516. Purpose and applicability.

(a) Statement of purpose.

(1) The purpose of these standards is to facilitate the preservation and/or replacement of trees as a part of land development in the city.

(2) The City of Stonecrest mayor and council hereby find that the preservation of existing trees is a public purpose that protects the public health, safety, general welfare, and aesthetics of the City of Stonecrest and all its citizens.

(3) The citizens of the city and their many communities enjoy many benefits that can be directly attributed to our trees.

a. Trees produce oxygen, which is essential to the well-being of all animal life, including humans.

b. Trees help to reduce the amounts of airborne pollutants. For example, trees remove carbon dioxide, which is a major environmental concern due to its current high levels.

c. Trees and their foliage intercept dust and particulate matter, thereby helping to purify our air and limiting health risks.

d. Trees and their root systems reduce soil erosion and stormwater runoff. This decreases sedimentation problems and improves water quality.

e. Trees provide food and shelter for desirable urban wildlife.

f. Trees provide screening, which in turn aids in the reduction of noise and glare.

g. Trees help moderate our air temperature to provide us with a comfortable environment.

h. Trees provide scenic amenities to soften the harshness of city buildings and streets. They are aesthetically pleasing to all who view them.

i. Trees may affect property values and can have a positive impact on the economy of an area.

j. Trees can enhance the natural functions of streams and related buffers.

(4) Protect specimen and historical trees in a manner consistent with the City of Stonecrest Tree Protection Ordinance.

(5) Provide standards for the preservation of trees as part of the land development process.

(6) Prevent clear-cutting and mass grading of land that results in the loss of mature trees, and to ensure appropriate replanting when tree loss does occur.

(7) Protect trees during construction to enhance the quality of life in the City of Stonecrest.

(8) Protect trees in construction of public facilities and utilities.

DO NOT GET CAUGHT WITH A NOTICE OF TREE REMOVAL VIOLATION

You cut, you pay! A Tree Removal notification and/or permit must be received prior to any tree removal. If you see a red Notice of Tree Removal Violation doorhanger (image shown below) on your site, you must contact the City Arborist, Roy Matthews, regarding the details of your violation.