Do I Have to Remove That Tree … or Not?

A broadcast version of this story

By noon Friday, City of Atlanta arborists had already gotten 30 calls about downed trees. Most of the calls were about trees owned by the city.

But what if you’re not sure? Is it your tree or not? City of Atlanta arborist Jasen Johns says it is all about the trunk. “We define ownership based off of who owns the most of the trunk of the tree,” says Johns. “If more than 50% is on city right-of-way or on city property, we consider it a city property tree.”

Johns says different municipalities may have somewhat different guidelines on how much it will help property owners with downed trees but deciding ownership of a tree according to its trunk is a tradition that goes back to the 19th century.

Johns says even you own the tree, city crews will help you remove it from a public right of way. During business hours, you can call the Parks Department at (404) 546-6813 if your tree is crossing a right-of-way. After hours, Johns says it is fine to call 911. Emergency dispatchers are prepared to send tree crews.

Georgia Power will remove part of your tree as well. But the utility will remove only as much as it has to in order for its crews to repair power lines. After that, it’s up to you.