This ordinance shall be known as the "Cherokee County Tree Preservation and Replacement Ordinance."

(Ord. No. 2008-Z-001, § 1, 1-15-08; Ord. No. 2021-O-007, § 1, 3-16-21)

The purpose of this ordinance is to provide standards for the protection and replacement of trees as part of the land development and building process, and to enrich the quality of life for the citizens of Cherokee County through education about and preservation of its tree resources. This is accomplished through the preservation, protection and planting of trees and other landscape material, particularly those trees recognized herein as "specimen", "heritage", "overstory" and "understory" trees, and the provision of natural and/or planted buffers between dissimilar uses as part of the land development process. The ordinance is intended to further the county's policy of preserving trees as a natural resource as well as to provide clear direction for those instances where trees are either removed or where land is to be developed where no trees exist.

(Ord. No. 2008-Z-001, § 1, 1-15-08; Ord. No. 2021-O-007, § 1, 3-16-21)

In construing the provisions hereof and the meaning of each and every word, term, phrase, or part thereof, where the context will permit, the definitions of words as contained in the adopted Zoning Ordinance of Cherokee County, supplemented by the following, shall apply:

Agriculture: The science or art of cultivating the soil, harvesting crops, and raising livestock.

Boundary tree: A tree ten-inch DBH or larger located on a property adjacent to a permitting property whose critical root zone or canopy extend into the permitting property. If a boundary tree cannot be saved or results in an encroachment into the critical root zone of greater than 10 percent, evidence of notification to the owner of the tree will be required to be provided to the county arborist prior to plan approval. This notification shall generally include the current condition of the tree, percent encroachment, potential outcomes of the encroachment, and proposed tree prescription, if any, to offset the encroachment.

Buffer: A natural and/or landscaped area for buffering incompatible land uses for the purpose of visibly separating one use from another. This is accomplished through screening and distance to shield or block noise, light, glare, or visual or other nuisances, and/or for protecting natural features such as streams and wetlands.

Caliper: A standard of trunk measurement for replacement trees. Caliper inches are measured at the height of six inches above the ground for trees up to and including four inch caliper and 12 inches above the ground for trees larger than four inches caliper.

Certified county arborist ("arborist"): The county official responsible for enforcing the ordinance, reviewing tree preservation and replacement plans, etc., to include developing arboricultural standards relative to tree care, protection, construction impacts and administrative guidelines for ordinance compliance as well as the determination of tree removal in public places. Said individual shall also be responsible for coordinating the county's Arbor Day programs, grants and other similar programs.

Critical root zone: The area beneath a tree which must be left undisturbed in order to preserve a sufficient root mass to give a tree a reasonable chance of survival. The critical root zone of a tree is established on the basis of the trunk diameter at DBH. Critical root zones are to be represented on plans by a concentric circle centered on the trunk location with a radius equal in feet to one point five times the number of inches of the tree's trunk diameter at DBH. Boundary tree critical root zones shall be reduced to a radius equal in feet to one point three times the number of inches of the tree's trunk diameter at DBH. The critical root zone shall be used by plan reviewers to determine compliance with design standards and construction specifications. A circle is graphically efficient to produce and represents the most likely configuration of a trees root pattern, even when the crown is skewed or one-sided. The ratio of circle diameter to trunk diameter is based on typical dripline distances noted on open grown trees with full crowns.

Density factor: A unit of measure used to prescribe the calculated tree coverage on a site.

Diameter breast-height (DBH): The standard measure of size for overstory and understory trees existing on a site. The tree trunk is measured at a height of four and one-half feet above the ground. If a tree splits into multiple trunks below four and one-half feet, measure the trunk at its most narrow point beneath the split.

Drip line: The line enclosing the area directly beneath the tree's crown from which rainfall would drip from the outermost branch tips of the tree or group of trees collectively.

Heritage tree: Any tree which is determined by Cherokee County to be of unique and intrinsic value to the general public because of its size, age, historic association, unique species to the region, ecological value or any tree designated a Georgia State Champion, United States Champion or World Champion by the American Forestry Association (Refer to Appendix B). This ordinance calls for the arborist to maintain a list of trees that are of special interest to the county. Upon recommendation by the arborist, the board of commissioners may designate a tree as a heritage tree, provided the tree's health, aerial space, and open ground area for the root system have been certified by the arborist as sufficient. The Arborist shall maintain a registry of heritage trees.

Land disturbance permit: The authorization granted by Cherokee County necessary to begin a land disturbing activity.

Land disturbing activity: Any alteration of the natural environment that shall require a land disturbance permit for removal of trees incidental to the development of land or to the marketing of land for development and includes, but it is not limited to, soil erosion permit, clearing and grubbing permit, land disturbance permit or building permit.

Overstory tree: Those tree species that compose the top layer or canopy of vegetation and will generally reach a mature height of greater than 40 feet. Replacement trees must be chosen from the list in Appendix D.

Parking lot: Two or more parking spaces.

Parking space, exterior: The clear space containing one row of parking spaces.

Parking space, interior: The clear space containing two rows of opposing parking spaces.

Pasture land: Land cleared of trees and used for livestock grazing or crop production for the past five years as depicted on aerial photos from Cherokee County or other sources.

Permanent damage: Permanent damage is defined as injury to a tree which will likely lead to decline or death of the tree or shortening the tree's expected lifespan.

Replacement planting: The planting of trees on a site that before development had more trees, and after development shall have fewer trees per acre.

Site: Any plot or parcel of land, or a combination of contiguous lots or parcels of land, where grading, building, construction, or alteration is performed or permitted.

Site density factor: The minimum number of tree density units per acre which must be achieved on a property at completion of development. Reference Appendix C.

Soil compaction: A change in the physical properties of soil which include an increase in soil weight per unit volume, and decreases in soil pore space. Soil compaction is caused by repeated vibrations, frequent traffic and weight. As related to tree roots, compacted soil can cause physical root damage, a decrease in soil oxygen levels with an increase in toxic gases, and can create an impervious condition to new root development.

Specimen tree: Any tree that qualifies for special consideration for preservation due to its size, type, and condition (Refer to Appendix A). Individual trees may be considered important county resources because of unique or noteworthy characteristics or values.

Stop work order: An official order from the county for work to cease on a development site until such time as specific issues are resolved.

Timber harvest: Under Georgia law all timber harvests or sales must be reported on department of revenue form PT-283T. The official code of Georgia Annotated defines timber harvest.

Tree: Any self-supporting woody perennial plant, usually having a main stem or trunk and many branches, and at maturity normally attaining a trunk diameter greater than three inches at any point and a height of over ten feet.

Tree diameter: The widest cross-sectional dimension of a tree trunk measured at diameter breast height (DBH) or at a point below DBH for new trees or multi-trunked species, but in no case less than six inches from the ground.

Tree prescription: A plan that describes how a tree will be treated in response to land disturbing activity. The tree prescription may include one or a combination of the following: Instructions on how to minimize impacts that are close to the trunk, branches or roots; Specific treatments to improve the tree's recovery and a timeline for implementation of such treatments; Follow-up procedures for long term care. Proof of prepayment is required prior to plan approval when a tree prescription is accepted in lieu of recompense replanting for impacts in excess of ten percent to saved specimen trees.

Tree preservation and replacement plan: A plan that identifies tree protection areas where existing trees are to be preserved and where proposed replacement trees are to be planted on a property to meet the requirements of this ordinance, as well as methods of tree protection to be undertaken on the site and other pertinent information.

Tree planting list: The recommended species of trees listed in Appendix D.

Tree protection area: Any portion of a site wherein are located existing trees which are proposed to be preserved in order to comply with the requirements of this ordinance. The tree protection area shall include at a minimum all area as defined by CRZ.

Tree save area: An area designated for the purpose of meeting tree density requirements, saving existing trees, and/or preserving natural buffers.

Understory tree: A species that, under normal forest conditions, grows to maturity beneath overstory trees and will generally reach a mature height of at least ten feet but less than 40 feet. Replacement trees must be chosen from the list in Appendix D.

Zoning ordinance: The Zoning Ordinance of Cherokee County, Georgia, as amended from time-to-time by the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners.

(Ord. No. 2008-Z-001, § 3, 1-15-08; Ord. No. 2015-O-11, Exh. A, 12-15-15; Ord. No. 2021-O-007, § 1, 3-16-21; Ord. No. 2025-O-011, § 1 (Exh. A), 8-19-25)

27.4-1

Violation of any section of this ordinance shall cause imposition of penalties as set forth in this section. Such penalties may be imposed against the property owner, applicant, developer, contractor performing the work that constitutes the violation or any other individual or entity that can be established as a responsible party in the discretion of the county (collectively the "offending party"). Any offending party may be issued a citation and summons to appear before a court of competent jurisdiction, and may be deemed guilty of violating a county ordinance, and may generally be punished by a fine not to exceed $1,000.00, in addition to the more stringent and specific penalties provided for in this section, nothing shall limit the county from pursuing any other available legal remedy, including, but not limited to, the pursuit of injunctive relief and the denial, revocation, or suspension of any county permits.

4-1.1

Activities under a land disturbance permit.

4-1.1.1 Unauthorized removal or permanent damage of each overstory or understory tree in a tree save area, zoning buffer and stream bank buffer: Immediate stop-work order, plus a fine of not less than $500.00 for each occurrence, plus $1.00 per square foot of disturbed area; not to collectively exceed $1,000.00 for any single occurrence; plus re-vegetation as directed in the discretion of the arborist.

4-1.1.2 Unauthorized removal or permanent damage of each specimen tree: Immediate stop-work order, plus a fine of not less than $1,000, plus replacement planting at three times the density unit value of the removed or damaged specimen tree as shown in Appendix C - Table A.

4-1.1.3 Unauthorized removal or permanent damage to any heritage tree: Immediate stop-work order, plus a fine of not less than 1,000.00, plus replacement planting at eight times the density unit value of the removed or damaged heritage tree as shown in Appendix C - Table A.

4-1.1.4 Failure to meet site density factor requirements or specimen recompense replanting requirements: Immediate stop-work order, plus withholding of certificate of occupancy or final plat approval.

27.4-2

If the exact DBH or type of tree(s) removed or damaged is not readily apparent then, the amount of replacement shall be determined based on the Arborist's estimate of the removed or damaged tree or trees based on information from the site development plans and/or site conditions. The location, species and planting specifications of replacement trees shall be approved by the Arborist prior to replanting, in accordance with the requirements of this ordinance.

27.4-3

All violations that are of a continuing nature shall constitute a separate offense for each occurrence.

27.4-4

The arborist is hereby charged with the responsibility for the enforcement of this ordinance. The county marshal's office will serve notice to any person in violation thereof or institute legal proceedings as may be required.

(Ord. No. 2008-Z-001, § 4, 1-15-08; Ord. No. 2021-O-007, § 1, 3-16-21)

27.5-1 This ordinance shall apply to all properties or portions thereof located within the unincorporated areas of Cherokee County, Georgia, to the extent of the provisions contained herein. The terms and provisions of this ordinance shall apply to any activity on real property which requires the issuance of a land disturbance permit except as exempted in section 6.1 below.

(Ord. No. 2008-Z-001, § 5, 1-15-08; Ord. No. 2021-O-007, § 1, 3-16-21)

27.6-1

General.

The following activities are specifically exempted from this ordinance:

6-1.1

The construction of single-family detached and/or two family residential dwelling that is not part of a major subdivision or that meets the requirements of a rural subdivision as defined in article 5.

6-1.2

Any addition, alteration, improvement or remodeling of an existing residence or the construction of structures accessory to an existing residence.

6-1.3

Tree removal by existing individual single-family detached and duplex homeowners; unless such tree(s) is/are noted as a heritage tree.

6-1.4

All plant or tree nurseries and botanical gardens and arboretums shall be exempt from the terms and provisions of this ordinance in relation to those trees which are being grown for relocation and continued growth in the ordinary course of business, or for some public purpose.

6-1.5

All orchards of trees in active commercial operation shall be exempt for bona fide agricultural purposes only.

6-1.6

Land clearing and grubbing activities for strictly agricultural purposes.

6-1.7

Timber harvesting operations as described in O.C.G.A. § 12-6-24(e)(3) and (4), meaning timber cutting that: (a) is carried out on unzoned tracts of land; or (b) (1) qualifies as 'forest land management practice' or 'agricultural operation' under O.C.G.A § 12-7-17; (2) is not incidental to development; and (3) is located on tracts zoned for or used for forestry, silvicultural, or agricultural purposes. However, such timber harvesting operations shall remain subject to the notice and guarantee requirements of subsection 27.6.4, when applicable.

6-1.8

Timber harvesting operations on property that is: (a) zoned residential ("R-") and (b) under a conservation use value covenant; provided that the operations satisfy the criteria and requirements of subsection 27.6-4.3.

6-1.9

The installation of On-Site Sewage Management Systems (OSSMS), initial or repair, providing the disruption of the trees is kept to a minimum and heritage tree guidelines are followed. If the OSSMS initial or repair is in a tree protection area, a plan of the OSSMS shall be submitted to the arborist prior to installation.

6-1.10

Any project requiring an LDP where the total disturbed acreage is 5,000 square feet or less and no trees are proposed to be removed as part of the project.

6-1.11

Development of acreage platted prior to December 31, 2020 in the Lake Arrowhead Development.

6-1.12

Any projects funded by Cherokee County or located on county owned property.

27.6-2

Removal of disease or insect infestation. Arborist approval is not required to remove dead and diseased trees by individual homeowners. There are situations where large areas of tree removal is appropriate and would not fall under the exemptions listed in section 6.1 including southern pine beetle infestation. Upon the written advice of the county extension service or the Georgia Forestry Commission or an ISA Certified Arborist in accordance with commonly accepted forestry practices and a finding of disease or insect infestation, the arborist may authorize the removal of trees to prevent the danger of these trees falling, prevent potential injury to life or property and prevent fuel build up for forest fires. The owner/developer, prior to the removal of these trees, shall notify the arborist, identifying the location of the infested property, and shall submit to the Arborist the written finding of an independent Certified Arborist, County Extension Service or the Georgia Forestry Commission.

27.6-3

Removal of structurally declining trees. Trees that are identified as posing a risk of failure (whole tree falling or large tree parts breaking off) and documented in writing by a professional Landscape Forester or I.S.A. Certified Arborist, in accordance with commonly accepted "Hazard Evaluation" techniques and practices, and not caused by development activities, may be authorized by the Arborist for removal without penalty. Site Density Units must still be met; removal requests shall be accompanied with an amendment to the replanting plan. These trees, because of poor structural attributes, shall not be counted as Heritage or Specimen trees.

27.6-4

Timber harvesting operations.

6-4.1

Notice. Pursuant to and in compliance with O.C.G.A. § 12-6-24, all persons or firms harvesting standing timber in any unincorporated area of Cherokee County for delivery as pulpwood, logs, poles, posts, or wood chips to any woodyard or processing plant located inside or outside this state shall provide notice of such harvesting operations to the county arborist prior to entering onto the property if possible, but in no event later than 24 hours after entering onto the property. Further, such persons shall give notice of cessation of cutting within 24 hours after the job is completed.

6-4.1.1 The notice of harvesting operations required by this ordinance shall be provided for each separate tract to be harvested. Such notice shall be made in such form as prescribed by rule or regulation of the director of the Georgia Forestry Commission, and shall include the following information:

1.

A map of the area which identifies the location of the tract to be harvested and, as to those trucks which will be traveling to and from such tract for purposes of picking up and hauling loads of cut forest products, the main point of ingress to such tract from a public road and, if different, the main point of egress from such tract to a public road. If multiple points of ingress and/or ingress will be used, all such points shall be identified;

2.

A statement as to whether the timber will be removed pursuant to a lump sum sale, per unit sale, or owner harvest for purposes of ad valorem taxation under O.C.G.A.§48-5-7.5;

3.

The name, address, and daytime telephone number of the timber seller if the harvest is pursuant to a lump sum or per unit sale or of the timber owner if the harvest is an owner harvest; and

4.

The name, business address, business telephone number, and nighttime or emergency telephone number of the person or firm harvesting such timber.

6-4.1.2 The notice required by this ordinance may be submitted in person, by transmission of an electronic record via telefacsimile or e-mail, or by mail. Upon notification published by the director of the Georgia Forestry Commission that a state-wide notification website or platform is available for public use, persons or firms wishing to utilize said website or platform to provide the notice required by this ordinance may do so at their option, and Cherokee County will accept notifications submitted in this manner. On and after a date specified and published by the director of the Georgia Forestry Commission, use of the state-wide notification website or platform shall be mandatory and shall be the sole means of providing the notice required by this ordinance; on and after said date submission of the notice by any of the means listed above shall cease and will no longer be deemed acceptable or in compliance with this ordinance.

6-4.2

Guarantee. Pursuant to and in compliance with O.C.G.A. § 12-6-24, the notice required by this ordinance shall not be or remain effective unless and until the person or firm providing such notice has delivered to the county arborist a valid surety bond, executed by a surety corporation authorized to transact business in this state, protecting Cherokee County against any damage caused by such person or firm in the amount of $5,000.00; provided, however, that at the option of the person or firm harvesting timber a valid irrevocable letter of credit issued by a bank or savings and loan association, as defined in O.C.G.A. §7-1-4, in the amount of $5,000.00 may be provided in lieu of a surety bond. Such bonds or letters of credit shall be subject to the conditions set forth in this ordinance. No more than one bond or letter of credit shall be required from each person or firm harvesting timber, regardless of the number of tracts harvested in the county for so long as the bond or letter of credit remains in effect. The bond or letter of credit required herein shall be valid only for the calendar year in which it was delivered.

6-4.2.1 The bond or letter of credit required by section 6-4.2 of this ordinance shall protect Cherokee County against any damage requiring re-ditching or repair of existing ditch structures or the removal of any harvesting residue, including tree tops, debris, logs, pulpwood and other materials, placed in or around the county's rights of way caused by such person or firm tendering the bond or letter of credit. The proceeds of such bond or letter of credit shall be available to reimburse the county for any cost incurred to repair such damages or remove such debris in or around the county's rights of way. The proceeds of such bond or letter of credit shall also be available to reimburse the county for any costs incurred to maintain or repair county roads damaged by the ingress or egress of motor vehicles engaged in the harvest operations located within 500 feet of any point of ingress or egress of the timber harvesting operation. The right of Cherokee County to call such bond or letter of credit in accordance with the provisions of this ordinance shall be in addition to any other remedies available to the county at law or in equity for damage to county roads or rights-of-way.

6-4.2.2 When damage results from a person or firm's harvesting activities, the governing authority of Cherokee County shall make and provide a written claim to the person or firm causing the damage within 30 business days after the governing authority becomes aware of the damage. Such claim may be given in person, by telefacsimile, email or mail. The claim shall describe the damage in detail and, in compliance with section 6-4.2.3 of this ordinance, give the person or firm the opportunity to repair such damage within 30 days of the notification; provided, however, the county shall be authorized to repair the damage immediately if the governing authority or its designee determines the conditions present a threat to public safety, health or welfare and, upon making such repairs, shall present to the person or firm and the issuer of the applicable bond or letter of credit an itemized list of expenses incurred as a claim against the responsible party and the issuer of its bond or letter of credit. Upon the issuance of a claim as provided in this section the governing authority of Cherokee County or its designee shall notify the issuer of the bond or letter of credit that a claim has been made and will be resolved or adjudicated according to the terms of this ordinance.

6-4.2.3 Within 30 days of receipt of the written claim described in section 6-4.2.2, the person or firm against whom the claim is submitted may:

1.

Repair such damage at his or its own expense with the approval and supervision of the governing authority of Cherokee County or its designee. When repairs are completed to the satisfaction of the governing authority or its designee, the governing authority or its designee shall provide a written notification of satisfactory completion within five business days to the responsible person or firm and to the surety issuing the bond or the bank issuing the letter of credit, thereby terminating the claim.

2.

In the event of inclement weather or other factors preventing repair of the damage, request a 30-day extension to repair the damage from the governing authority of Cherokee County, provided that no extensions shall exceed 90 days from the date the claim was tendered. Approval of any extension shall be at the discretion of the governing authority of Cherokee County or its designee.

3.

Appeal the claim to the Magistrate Court of Cherokee County. Any such appeal must name the issuer of the bond or letter of credit as a party, who shall be served with all pleadings in the action and shall have the right to appear. The Magistrate Court will hear evidence and arguments within 30 days of the written appeal and issue a ruling within ten days of such hearing. Any such appeal shall toll the 30-day period, or any extension thereof, required by section 8 of this ordinance. If the Magistrate Court rules in favor of the person or firm against whom the claim was made, the county shall have no right to recover any proceeds of the bond or letter of credit, and judgment shall be entered against the county. If the Magistrate Court rules in favor of the county the court shall determine the amount of damages to which the county is entitled to recover and enter judgment accordingly; the governing authority of Cherokee County shall be authorized to call the bond or letter of credit and recover from the proceeds thereof an amount equal to the judgment entered by the court, up to the total amount of the bond or letter of credit. The portion of any judgment entered in favor of the county that exceeds the amount of the bond or letter of credit shall be subject to collection by any additional remedies at law or equity.

4.

In the event the person or firm against whom the claim has been submitted fails to take any of the actions allowed under subsections (a), (b) or (c) of this Section within the time required therein, such person or firm shall be deemed to have waived any and all rights to contest the call of the bond or letter of credit.

6-4.2.4 If the person or firm tendering a bond or letter of credit pursuant to the requirements of this ordinance continues its timber harvesting operation beyond the calendar year in which the bond or letter of credit was issued, the person or firm continuing the timber harvesting operation shall tender a new bond or letter of credit within five business days after the first day of the new calendar year. In the event a bond or letter of credit tendered pursuant to the requirements of this ordinance is revoked by the surety or bank, then a valid replacement bond or letter of credit must be delivered to the county arborist within five business days after the date of revocation in order for timber harvesting operations to continue. In addition, if the person or firm tendering the bond or letter of credit caused its revocation, the amount of the bond or letter of credit required shall be increased to $7,500.00 after the first revocation, and $10,000.00 after a second revocation caused by the person or firm tendering the bond or letter of credit. The maximum amount of the bond or letter of credit shall not exceed $10,000.00.

6-4.2.5 Submission of the notice required by this ordinance shall authorize the person or firm submitting same to undertake the timber harvesting operation described in the notice and shall remain in effect until such time as the person or firm gives notice that the harvesting operation is complete; provided, however, that any change in the facts required to be provided for purposes of such notice, including but not limited to a change in the scope or extent of the operation, must be reported to the county arborist within three business days after such change.

6-4.3

Procedure for timber harvesting of conservation use value covenant parcels. Timber harvesting shall be permitted, and harvesting operations shall be exempted from this ordinance, on residential-zoned parcels under a Conservation Use Value Covenant (CUVA), subject to the following requirements:

6-4.3.1 The property shall be a minimum of ten acres in size.

6-4.3.2 There shall be a 50 foot exterior timber harvesting setback around the entire perimeter of the property, which shall remain undisturbed with the exception of approved access to the property from the road; and

6-4.3.3 All state and county minimum stream buffers shall remain undisturbed except for haul road and skid trail crossings.

6-4.3.4 All activity on the site shall be in compliance with the Cherokee County Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control Ordinance, all Best Management Practices as described in the Georgia Forestry Commission document "Recommended Best Management Practices for Forestry in Georgia" and the U.S. Clean Water Act, Section 404, EPA, 40 CFR, Part 232.3(c)(6).

6-4.3.5 The county arborist may approve exceptions to address disease or insect infestations documented by a registered forester or certified arborist.

6-4.3.6 A copy of all timber harvest permits and/or notices shall be provided to the Cherokee County Tax Assessor and the Cherokee County Tax Commissioner.

6-4.4

Fees. Consistent with O.C.G.A. §12-6-24:

6-4.4.1 No fee shall be charged to provide and submit the notice required by this ordinance; and

6-4.4.2 No permit, including a driveway permit, shall be required of the person or firm engaged in a timber harvesting operation as defined by said Code section. Persons and firms providing the notice required by this ordinance may be asked to consult with county officials responsible for roads and public works for the purpose of minimizing damage to the county's roads, rights of way and infrastructure, and are urged to follow recommendations from county officials. Notwithstanding the forgoing, the person or firm conducting the timber harvest operation bears ultimate responsibility for their actions, and nothing in this ordinance shall preclude the governing authority of Cherokee County from taking any and all legal action necessary to protect its property and the health, safety and welfare of its citizens.

6-4.5

Penalty. Any person or firm that engages in a timber harvesting operation in the unincorporated portion of Cherokee County without complying with the notice requirements of this ordinance shall be subject to a citation and trial, and upon conviction shall be fined in an amount not to exceed $1,500.00 for each violation.

(Ord. No. 2008-Z-001, § 6, 1-15-08; Ord. No. 2015-O-11, Exh. A, 12-15-15; Ord. No. 2018-O-009, § 1, 9-18-18; Ord. No. 2018-O-017, §§ 1, 2, 12-4-18; Ord. No. 2021-O-007, § 1, 3-16-21)

27.7-1

Land disturbance permit. Land disturbance activities shall not commence until such activities have been authorized by issuance of an appropriate land disturbance permit (LDP) under the provisions of the development regulations, latest edition. No land disturbance permit shall be issued for development without it being determined by the arborist that the proposed development is in compliance with the provisions of this ordinance.

27.7-2

Permit procedures.

7-2.1

Prior to submission of any plans associated with the LDP application, applicants are required to conduct a pre-planning meeting with the arborist. This meeting is intended to provide an opportunity for the applicant to present their conceptual plans as well as to ensure that applicant is aware of all provisions of this ordinance that might potentially impact said plans. Resulting information from this conference, that are specific to items of which the arborist has latitude, should be recorded by the applicant, and submitted to the Arborist for inclusion in the plans submitted for the LDP application. All tree preservation and replacement plans and related documents shall be reviewed by the arborist for conformance to the provisions of this ordinance. The permit will require approval and sign-off by the arborist.

7-2.2

Arborist sign-off shall constitute an approval of the required Tree Preservation and Replacement Plan and conformance to the provisions of these regulations.

7-2.3

The arborist, at any time, may at his/her discretion, require an "as built" tree plan, which graphically communicates the size, location, and name of all trees and landscape material existing on site. The plan must be to scale and prepared by a certified arborist or registered landscape architect.

(Ord. No. 2008-Z-001, § 7, 1-15-08; Ord. No. 2021-O-007, § 1, 3-16-21)

The quantity of total existing and replacement trees on a site must be sufficient so as to produce a total site density factor as follows: Trees should be distributed throughout the development and not located in only one area. Subsequent tree replacements are provided in appendix C.

The required site density for each site shall be calculated by multiplying the total acreage of the site by the required site density factor for the appropriate zoning district (see article 7).

Example: SDF for a Wooded Site zoned R-40 is calculated by multiplying the total acres by 20 units per acre. A 10-acre site x 20 units per acre = 200 units.

(Ord. No. 2008-Z-001, § 8, 1-15-08; Ord. No. 2021-O-007, § 1, 3-16-21)

27.9-1

General. It shall be the policy of the county to maximize the preservation and maintenance of existing trees and where necessary the planting of replacement trees. An approved tree protection and replacement plan must be included as a condition for issuance of a land disturbance permit. The arborist shall have the authority to reject and/or approve appropriate measures (including a combination of measures) based on the requirements of this ordinance and the particular circumstances of each project. It shall also be the policy of the county to provide guidelines for new tree plantings in those instances where no trees currently exist, e.g., former pasture land. The provisions of this section are intended for the protection of either individual trees or stands of trees as a condition for approving of destruction, or damage to, tree or woodland/forest resources.

This is driven with the following objectives in mind:

9-1.1

Protect existing trees or woodland/forest resources;

9-1.2

Provide additional protection for specimen and heritage trees;

9-1.3

Planning for and identifying tree save areas at the earliest stages of development process

27.9-2

Preservation and protection of existing trees.

9-2.1

The required site density factor shall first be met with existing trees when possible (See section 8). Special emphasis shall be afforded to the preservation of heritage and specimen trees (see Appendix A and B). When a choice is available as to which existing trees to save, heritage trees and specimen trees, even isolated individual trees, shall be given preference over other trees. As provided for in appendix B, heritage trees shall be afforded special protection and may be removed in accordance with appendix B.

9-2.2

Protection of existing individual trees and/or stands shall be incorporated as a required portion of initial design and project layout through project build out to include the following:

9-2.2.1 Planning for and identifying tree save areas at the earliest stages of development process;

9-2.2.2 Initial design of project lay-out;

9-2.2.3 Relocate proposed structures or infrastructure as necessary;

9-2.2.4 Utilize appropriate construction and planning methods to minimize damage to tree roots during construction; and

9-2.2.5 Set aside portions of project area as woodland/forest preserves conservation areas.

27.9-3

Planting of new trees. If the required site density factor cannot be accomplished with existing trees, replacement trees shall be planted as required by this ordinance. Using the guidelines provided in section 9.3.3 below, the precise locations may be at the discretion of the arborist.

9-3.1

Trees selected for planting must be free from injury, pests, disease, nutritional disorders or root defects, and must be of good vigor in order to assure a reasonable expectation of survivability.

9-3.2

Standards for transplanting shall be in keeping with those established in the International Society of Arboriculture publication, "Tree and Shrub Transplanting Manual" or similar publication. Reference the American Association of Nurserymen publication "American Standard for Nursery Stock" (ANSI Z60, 1973) for plant material quality specifications. Reference the latest edition of the "Manual for Woody Landscape Plants: Michael Dirr, ISA Guidelines and ANSI Standards, or similar publication for information on site requirements for various tree species.

9-3.3

Guidelines:

9-3.3.1 Plant new trees in landscaped portions of parcel to replace those removed.

9-3.3.2 Plant new trees on lands that currently lack trees (usually pasture or farmland).

9-3.3.3 Plant new trees on portions of the project area set aside as tree save areas.

9-3.4

When new plant materials are to be installed, a plant material list shall be provided. Said list shall include:

9-3.4.1 Common and botanical names of all proposed plants.

9-3.4.2 Plant quantities.

9-3.4.3 Size and condition of plants. (Example: two inch caliper, six feet height, balled and burlapped).

9-3.4.4 Spacing.

9-3.5

Artificial materials prohibited: All artificial plants, trees, shrubs, grass or other vegetation shall be prohibited from fulfilling the requirements of this ordinance.

9-3.6

In the event that the minimum tree density cannot be met on a parcel then two alternatives chosen at the discretion of the Arborist, are available for compensation and issuance of approval, of the Tree Preservation and Replacement Plan.

9-3.6.1 Tree bank. It shall be at the discretion of the arborist to designate sites other than said parcel for tree bank planting in order to achieve minimum site density requirements. The arborist shall have the authority to allow approval of off-site replanting in a tree bank upon receipt of a site plan indicating site constraints that prevent the replanting of said trees. Approval for off-site replanting shall not exceed 25 percent of total trees required for replanting.

9-3.6.2 Tree replacement fund contribution. County arborist will require three estimates from competent landscape contractors and middle dollar value will be used. The arborist shall have the authority to allow individuals developing sites to make contributions to the Cherokee County Tree Replacement Fund in lieu of the required replanting. Contributions shall be calculated by the arborist and shall be paid prior to the issuance of a land disturbance permit. Contributions shall be calculated as to reflect the current replacement cost (including labor) of the total number of trees that are required but are not planted. These contributions will be used to plant trees and other vegetation in public spaces or on property owned by Cherokee County. Approval for Tree Replacement Fund Contribution in lieu of on-site replanting shall not exceed 25 percent of the total trees required for replanting.

(Ord. No. 2008-Z-001, § 9, 1-15-08; Ord. No. 2021-O-007, § 1, 3-16-21)

27.10-1

Tree preservation and replacement plans shall be prepared by a professional landscape architect, urban forester or ISA Certified Arborist, other state licensed professionals of similar design discipline may be authorized by the arborist to prepare tree preservation and replacement plans, provided they demonstrate, to the satisfaction of the arborist, competency and knowledge in the principles and practices of arboriculture as well as the demonstrated ability to prepare such plans in accordance with this ordinance. Continuous and excessive reviews and re-submittals may disqualify the designer from further acceptance by the arborist.

Tree protection and replacement plans must include the following:

27.10-2

Tree inventories and surveys.

Compliance with the required site density factor shall be demonstrated on the tree protection and replacement plan and the grading and erosion control plan. All trees that are to be counted toward meeting density requirements must be inventoried or sampled based on the acreage of the overall site. The method used to inventory the trees must be indicated on the plans.

On tree save areas greater than three acres, all tree save areas must be surveyed using an approved scientific sampling method (e.g., Basal Area). Timber cruising methods (50'X50' sample areas or the prism method) of sampling is needed for large tracts. One sample required for every three acres of tree save area. Sampling should be done in areas to remain as undisturbed tree save areas, not areas intended for development. The contents of each sample area shall be inventoried. All sampling areas shall be accurately depicted on the tree protection and replacement plan and appropriately flagged to corresponding locations on the actual site. When using sample areas, the basal area units should be averaged and an existing density factor per acre determined. Using this tree density, the appropriate amount of tree save area should be preserved to meet the site density factor requirements. These calculations must be included on the tree plan.

On tree save areas of three acres or less, all trees to be considered for density requirements must be individually inventoried. This tree inventory list and tree locations must be shown on the plan. See example in appendix C.

The existing tree line and vegetation characteristics of the site shall be shown on the plans. Existing trees or stands of trees used in the density calculations must be indicated on the plan. The tree save areas should be clearly shown on the plans with their size in acres. Areas designated as tree save areas must be wooded.

27.10-3

Exact location of all Specimen and Heritage trees. Special consideration shall be given to specimen and heritage trees on development sites. Specimen trees and heritage trees must be shown on the tree preservation and replacement plan with an indication whether they are to be retained or removed and reason for removal. Said trees must be flagged and numbered in the field with correlating numbers and exact location shown on the plan. Extra tree density credit will be given for saved specimen and heritage trees. If no design features accommodate their preservation, removed specimen trees require recompense plantings of comparable species. Refer to appendix A for specimen tree criteria and tree density unit values. Use the values in the replacement tree density chart (appendix C, table B) to determine the quantity and sizes of the needed recompense trees.

27.10-4

All tree save areas must be delineated on the tree protection and replacement plan and the grading and erosion control plan. Methods of tree protection shall be indicated for all tree save areas and specimen/heritage trees, including tree save fencing, erosion control, retaining walls, tree wells, tunneling for utilities, aeration systems, transplanting, signage, etc.

27.10-5

All buffers must be identified on the tree protection and replacement plan. Any portion of a zoning buffer lacking sufficient vegetation to provide effective visual screening must be supplemented with evergreen plantings. A detailed planting plan for these areas is required. Planted trees must be a minimum six feet tall.

27.10-6

Indicate limits of disturbed area. During construction, tree save areas, zoning buffers, stream buffers, open space, and specimen/heritage trees must be properly protected from disturbance using high visibility orange active tree save fencing. These tree save areas and the active tree save fencing locations must appear on the clearing, grading, erosion control and tree protection plans.

27.10-7

Existing and proposed location of overhead and underground utilities or easements must be shown.

27.10-8

Indicate staging areas for parking, material storage, concrete washout, debris burn, and burial holes where these areas might negatively impact protected trees.

27.10-9

The locations of all trees to be planted to meet Site Density Factor and Specimen recompense replanting requirements. All landscaping such as street trees, parking lot trees and landscape strips should be shown graphically on the plans. In addition, a detailed planting schedule showing the type (common and botanical names), sizes and quantity of trees to be planted, spacing and any special planting notes.

27.10-10

Tree preservation and replacement plans that consist of more than ten new trees shall incorporate at least three separate tree genera whereby no single tree genus accounts for more than 33 percent of all newly planted trees.

27.10-11

A narrative explaining the actual planting dates is needed for larger sites. Remote and/or large replanting areas such as zoning buffers are best planted between November and April. Indicate clearly on the Tree Protection and Replacement Plan when planting will take place.

27.10-12

Additional information as required by the arborist on a case by case basis. After the submission of the plan, the Arborist will perform a site inspection. The tree protection and replacement plan shall provide sufficient information and detail to clearly demonstrate that all applicable requirements and standards of this ordinance are or will be fully satisfied.

(Ord. No. 2008-Z-001, § 10, 1-15-08; Ord. No. 2021-O-007, § 1, 3-16-21)

27.11-1

In addition to proper utilization of tree protection devices (see section 11.2 below), the following measures are detrimental to the long term health and survivability of trees and are prohibited within the critical root zone (CRZ) of any and all saved trees during construction:

11-1.1 The improper use of machinery on the trees;

11-1.2 The storage of materials in or around the trees;

11-1.3 Altering the natural grade to expose the roots or to cover the tree's root system with more than four inches of soil;

11-1.4 Causing the infection or infestation of the tree by pests, fungus or harmful bacteria;

11-1.5 Pruning judged to be excessive by the arborist or not in accordance with the standard set forth by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA);

11-1.6 Paving with concrete, asphalt or other impervious surface within such proximity as to be harmful to the tree or its root system; and

11-1.7 Application of an herbicide, including pre-emergent herbicides, or defoliant to any tree without first obtaining a permit.

11-1.8 Soil compaction in the critical root zone from heavy equipment, vehicular; or excessive pedestrian traffic, or storage of equipment or materials;

11-1.9 Root disturbance due to cuts, fills, or trenching;

11-1.10 Wounds to exposed roots, trunks, or limbs;

11-1.11 Other activities such as chemical storage, cement truck cleaning, fire, etc.

27.11-2

Location and types of tree protection devices. Tree protection devices are to be installed completely surrounding the critical root zone of all trees or group of trees to be preserved. Active protection (see section 11.2A below) is required where tree save areas are located along the limits of disturbance. Passive protection (see section 11.2B below) may be used in more remote tree save areas as determined by the arborist. Once tree save areas are established and approved, any changes are subject to review and written approval by the arborist.

27.11-3

Materials.

11-3.1

Active tree protection shall consist of chain link, orange laminated plastic, wooden post, rail fencing, or other equivalent restraining material.

11-3.2

Passive tree protection shall consist of heavy mill plastic flagging of a bright color or equivalent signage on a continuous, durable restraint sufficient to delineate the bounds of any tree protection or save areas. See appendix E.

27.11-4

Sequence of installation and removal. All tree protection devices shall be installed prior to any land disturbing activity. The arborist will inspect the installation of tree protection devices. It shall be the sole responsibility of the property owner and/or developer to ensure that all tree protection devices remain in functioning condition throughout all phases of development and shall not be removed until final landscaping is installed. In the event passive tree protection is not kept in functioning condition, active tree protection may be required throughout the project.

27.11-5

Encroachment.

If encroachment into a tree save area occurs, which causes irreparable damage to the trees, the tree preservation and replacement plan shall be revised to compensate for the loss.

Under no circumstances shall the developer be relieved of responsibility for compliance with the provisions of this ordinance, nor shall plan revision activities stop the county from instituting action for violation of this ordinance (see section 4).

27.11-6

Boundary trees shall also be protected and included in tree save areas. Under no circumstances shall the developer be relieved of responsibility for compliance with the provisions of this ordinance, nor shall plan revision activities stop the county from instituting action for violation of this ordinance (see section 4).

27.11-7

Other specifications. Where clearing has been approved, trees shall be removed in a manner that does not physically impact the trees to be preserved. Felling trees into tree save areas or disturbing roots inside the tree save areas shall be treated as a violation and shall be punishable in accordance with this ordinance. All erosion and sedimentation control measures shall be installed so that sediment will not accumulate within the tree save area. All tree protection areas shall be designated as such with "tree protection area" signs posted visibly on all sides of the fenced-in area. These signs are intended to inform subcontractors of the tree protection process. Signs requesting subcontractor cooperation and compliance with the tree protection standards are recommended for site entrances.

(Ord. No. 2008-Z-001, § 11, 1-15-08; Ord. No. 2021-O-007, § 1, 3-16-21)

27.12-1

General. Species selected for replacement must be quality species, and must be ecologically compatible with the intended site. See Appendix D for list of recommended species. Deviations from the Recommended Tree Planting List are acceptable for use in meeting density requirements only with prior approval from the Arborist.

27.12-2

Minimum Planting Area. In order to provide sufficient growing area for planted trees, the following minimum criteria must be observed unless otherwise approved by the County Arborist:

27.12-3

Invasive Plants. Invasive plant species shown on the Georgia Exotic Pest Plant Council (EPPC) Invasive Plant List shall be prohibited.

(Ord. No. 2008-Z-001, § 12, 1-15-08; Ord. No. 2018-O-009, § 2, 9-18-18; Ord. No. 2021-O-007, § 1, 3-16-21)

27.13-1

General. Trees shall be planted in areas surrounding the perimeter of the parking lot and shall be planted in planting areas or islands internal to the parking lot. Trees may be planted and spaced singly or in groups. Landscape islands shall be located in such a manner as to divide and break up the parking area.

27.13-2

Quantity, spacing and planting standards. Parking lots which are required to contain five or more parking spaces shall contain landscaping and plantings as follows:

13-2.1

For each five parking spaces that are located around the exterior of the parking lot, there must be located a minimum of one tree around the exterior of the parking lot.

13-2.2

For each ten parking spaces that are located in the interior of the parking lot, there must be located a minimum of one tree on the interior of the parking lot.

13-2.3

Each tree shall be at least three inch caliper at time of planting and shall be a species selected from appendix D.

13-2.4

The minimum planting area or space for each tree shall be in accordance with section 27.12-2.

13-2.5

Ground areas shall be sodded, seeded with grass, mulched, or planted with groundcover species, or any combination thereof.

13-2.6

At least 30 percent of the trees planted shall consist of Overstory Trees.

(Ord. No. 2008-Z-001, § 13, 1-15-08; Ord. No. 2021-O-007, § 1, 3-16-21)

27.14-1

Warranty or maintenance surety. Upon final installation of new trees, shrubs or other landscape material planted to meet the requirements of this section, and before acceptance by the county arborist, the owner shall either post a maintenance bond or cash guarantee in an amount equal to 75 percent of the value of the new trees or landscape material and their installation, warranting the new trees, shrubs or landscape material for a period of no less than 15 months from approval of final plat or certificate of occupancy.

14-1.1

Inspection. The arborist shall perform an inspection of the plantings and landscape materials required by this ordinance prior to the end of the 15 month warranty period. The owner shall be provided written notice of any replacements or restoration that must be made to maintain compliance with this ordinance or conditions of zoning, special use, or variance approval as pertains to trees and landscaping.

Required landscape material found to be dead or near death shall be replaced prior to release of the warranty by the county. In no case shall replacement be delayed greater than 30 days from notification unless an additional performance bond is posted with the county.

27.14-2

Performance surety. In the event that new trees required to be planted as set forth herein, cannot be installed upon application for a certificate of occupancy or final plat approval as appropriate to the project, then at the discretion of the arborist, a performance bond or letter of credit in an amount equal to 130 percent of the value of the new trees or landscape material and their installation may be accepted in accordance with the performance bonding requirements and provisions of the county.

14-2.1

Compliance upon permit completion or expiration. Properties where a permit is issued to conduct land disturbing activities that do not require the issuance of a certificate of occupancy or the approval of a final plat, shall comply with the tree density standard of this ordinance as follows:

27.14-3

Clearing, clearing and grubbing, or grading only permits. A performance bond or letter of credit shall be posted with the county for the replacement units prior to the issuance of a land disturbance permit. The amount shall be equal to 130 percent of the value of the new trees or landscape material and their installation.

27.14-4

Continuing maintenance.

14-4.1

The owner, occupant, tenant, and respective agent of each, if any, shall be jointly and severally responsible for the perpetual maintenance and protection of buffers and landscape plantings required by this ordinance.

14-4.2

The county arborist is hereby authorized to order diseased, infested, dying, dead or damaged landscaping required herein to be replaced.

14-4.3

Replacement trees and landscaping shall be in accordance with the applicable provisions of this ordinance.

(Ord. No. 2008-Z-001, § 14, 1-15-08; Ord. No. 2021-O-007, § 1, 3-16-21; Ord. No. 2025-O-011, § 1 (Exh. A), 8-19-25)

27.15-1

General. The I-575 technology ridge buffer zone is herein recognized as all parcels lying within 75 feet in a horizontal linear distance measured perpendicular from each side of the I-575 right-of-way within its entirety within Cherokee County. It is the intent that the buffer zone will not only provide a visual aesthetic value, but also serve in a capacity to improve the quality of life by filtering noise, light, and airborne pollutants. These developments shall incorporate the following criteria prior to issuance of a land disturbance permit:

27.15-2

Corridor. The corridor for the I-575 technology ridge tree buffer zone shall be recognized as those areas lying parallel on each side of I-575 and shall require a 75 foot minimum undisturbed tree buffer requiring 90 percent visual screening during all seasons. Supplemental planting is required if this screening does not exist.

27.15-3

Interchange zones. The area within a distance of 1,000 linear feet in each direction of the crossing of a right-of-way of an interchange and parallel with I-575 shall be recognized as an Interchange Zone and shall require a 75 foot minimum undisturbed tree buffer requiring 75 percent visual screening during all seasons. Supplemental planting is required if this screening does not exist.

(Ord. No. 2008-Z-001, § 15, 1-15-08; Ord. No. 2021-O-007, § 1, 3-16-21)

All petitions shall require a public hearing before the zoning board of appeals and shall be subject to the provisions for variances as defined in article 15 of the Cherokee County Zoning Ordinance and the application requirements of the Cherokee Planning and Zoning Department.

(Ord. No. 2008-Z-001, § 16, 1-15-08; Ord. No. 2021-O-007, § 1, 3-16-21)

The contents of this Ordinance shall not in any way be deemed to impose any liability upon Cherokee County, the Board of Commissioners or County employees nor shall it relieve the owner and occupant of any private property from the duty to keep trees upon private property or under his/her control in a safe condition as not to affect the health, safety and general welfare of the public.

(Ord. No. 2008-Z-001, § 17, 1-15-08; Ord. No. 2021-O-007, § 1, 3-16-21)

27.18-1

Repeal clause. The provisions of any ordinances or resolutions or parts of ordinances or resolutions in conflict herewith are repealed, save and except such ordinances or resolutions or parts of ordinances or resolutions which provide stricter standards than those provided herein.

27.18-2

Severability. Should any section, subsection, clause, or provision of this ordinance be declared by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, such decision shall not affect the validity of the ordinance in whole or any part thereof other than the part so declared to be invalid.

27.18-3

Amendment. This ordinance may be amended from time-to-time by ordinance of the board of commissioners, Cherokee County. Such amendments shall be effective as specified in the adopting ordinance.

27.18-4

Effective date. This ordinance shall become effective upon its adoption. To the extent that an individual has submitted a development plan with the county or participated in a pre-development meeting with county staff prior to the passage of this ordinance, such individual shall be vested under the previous tree ordinance and subject to all such requirements in existence prior to the passage of this ordinance.

(Ord. No. 2008-Z-001, § 18, 1-15-08; Ord. No. 2021-O-007, § 1, 3-16-21)