Urban Forestry Program

Sandy Springs Urban Forestry Program

Trees and the natural environment are a priority for the Sandy Springs community. Policy GS-D1 of the Next Ten Comprehensive Plan states:

“Preserve and enhance the tree canopy: Establish and implement an aggressive program to protect, renew, and expand Sandy Springs’ tree canopy.”

Urban Forestry Operations and Policies

The City of Sandy Springs is committed to the proactive stewardship of its urban forest.

Through operational initiatives, regulatory programs, and community engagement, the City works to expand tree canopy coverage, protect native biodiversity, and support the long-term health of trees on both public and private property.

The Urban Forestry Division administers programs and funding mechanisms that support environmental sustainability and urban canopy preservation.

Tree Fund (Sandy Springs Tree Bank)

Established under Section 8.3.8.C of the City’s Development Code, the Tree Fund, commonly referred to as the Sandy Springs Tree Bank, finances activities that support tree canopy restoration and preservation.

The fund is administered by the Urban Forest Coordinator in accordance with policies approved by the City Council.

Canopy Study and Inventory

The City has conducted multiple tree canopy studies over the years. Since 2013, canopy coverage has been evaluated every two years.

In 2021, the City acquired vegetation data derived using artificial intelligence (AI) technology. Comparisons between traditional pixel classification methods and AI-derived data for 2017 and 2021 showed that AI-generated canopy analysis produced higher accuracy rates when evaluated against quality control points.

In 2023 and 2025, only AI-derived data was used for canopy studies.

2013 (Pixel Classification): 58.7%
2015 (Pixel Classification): 58.5%
2017 (Pixel Classification): 60.3%; AI-derived: 56.5%
2019 (Pixel Classification): 58.1%
2021 (Pixel Classification): 58.1%; AI-derived: 55%
2023 (AI-derived): 54.5%

The Department of Recreation and Parks oversees the planting and maintenance of trees on City-owned property, including street trees and trees located in public parks.

In addition to citywide canopy studies, the City has commissioned inventories of individual trees on public property. These surveys are conducted by certified arborists and collect information such as species, size, and health condition.

This information supports long-term management planning and helps identify opportunities for future tree planting.

The City is currently updating its inventory and developing a new public-facing resource that will allow residents to explore and learn more about Sandy Springs’ urban forest and the ecosystem services it provides.

Since 2018, the City has planted more than 3,000 trees.

Sandy Springs Tree Map

Ecosystem Services and Benefits of Trees

Trees provide numerous environmental and community benefits, including:

Reducing stormwater runoff by slowing and absorbing rainfall
Providing natural cooling and reducing energy costs
Supporting soil health and reducing erosion through root systems
Improving air quality by filtering pollutants and producing oxygen
Providing habitat and food sources for wildlife
Reducing ambient noise and noise pollution
Supporting mental and physical health
Enhancing aesthetics and increasing property values

Major Forest Patches in Sandy Springs

Sandy Springs is located within Georgia’s Piedmont region, part of the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.

Prior to development, much of the area was covered by forests that were later cleared for agriculture and timber production. Beginning in the 1950s, suburban development gradually replaced farmland and portions of the forest canopy.

Several significant forested areas remain throughout Sandy Springs, including:

Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area units:
- Island Ford
- Powers Island
- East Palisades
City parks and preserves:
- Big Trees Forest Preserve, a member of the Old-Growth Forest Network
- Lost Corner Preserve
- Morgan Falls Overlook Park
- Ridgeview Park

These forest networks provide important habitat for wildlife, including migratory bird species.

How Homeowners Can Support the Urban Canopy

Plant Health Care (PHC) Practices

The City uses a comprehensive Plant Health Care (PHC) approach that emphasizes preventive care and environmentally responsible tree management practices.

Proper Pruning Practices

Tree pruning is an important component of urban forest management.

The City follows standards established by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and requires that pruning conducted on public property or funded through the Tree Fund follow industry best practices.

Plant Native Trees

The City partners with Trees Atlanta to provide free trees to eligible property owners.

Up to three trees per property may be requested.

Eligibility requirements include:

Trees must be planted within 35 feet of the street right-of-way
Trees must be planted in the front yard
Only properties located along public roads are eligible

Trees Atlanta provides planting services, while property owners are responsible for ongoing maintenance.

Trees Atlanta Yard Tree Program

Invasive Species Management

Some non-native plant species thrive in Georgia due to favorable environmental conditions. Without natural predators or controls, certain invasive species can spread aggressively and displace native vegetation.

Invasive species may negatively affect wildlife habitat, biodiversity, and ecosystem health. Planting invasive species is prohibited under Section 8.2.8 of the Sandy Springs Development Code.

English ivy (Hedera helix) is a particular concern because it can climb and damage trees, block sunlight, weaken tree structure, and contribute to branch or trunk failure.

Learn More About English Ivy

Additional Resources

Nonprofit and Volunteer Organizations

Memorial Tree Program

The City’s Memorial Tree Program allows individuals to honor loved ones through tree donations in Sandy Springs public parks.

Donations may include the cost of a tree and a commemorative placard.

Tree species and planting locations are selected in accordance with the City’s Acceptance of Gifts in Parks and Open Spaces Policy.

A future interactive map is planned to display eligible planting locations alongside the Public Tree Inventory Map.

Acceptance of Gifts in Parks and Open Spaces Policy (PDF)

For questions, contact the Department of Recreation and Parks.

Tree Removal Permits

Removing trees on private property may require a permit.

Tree Removal Permit Information