Trees are more than just part of the scenery—they keep our air clean, provide shade, reduce flooding, and create enjoyable spaces for everyone to enjoy. As Gwinnett continues to grow, we want to ensure that we are not just adding buildings but also growing and preserving our green spaces.

Your feedback will help shape how we balance growth with the care of our tree canopy. Through research, community input, and thoughtful planning, we can ensure Gwinnett County remains a vibrant, green place to live, work, and play. Together, we can create a greener, healthier future for generations to come.

The revised Tree Ordinance aims to balance progress and preservation, create healthier neighborhoods, foster sustainability, and enhance public spaces. The Tree Ordinance revision process will take about a year, with completion set for August 2025.

The Purpose of the Tree Ordinance Revision:

• Manage Growth Smarter: Protect existing trees and ensure new ones are planted as we grow.
• Create Adaptable Standards: Urban areas and rural spaces need different approaches.
• Expand Green Spaces: By expanding the tree canopy, we create vibrant, healthy spaces for all residents to enjoy, fostering equity and community well-being.
• Manage Stormwater the Natural Way: Trees act as natural sponges, soaking up rainwater, reducing runoff, and helping prevent flooding in urban areas​.
• Support Native Species: Native trees thrive and make our landscape more resilient.
• Boost Biodiversity: A thriving tree canopy means more homes for birds, insects, and small mammals.

The Impact and Value of Trees

Trees in urban areas create healthier, more sustainable communities. Research shows that maintaining and expanding the tree canopy delivers essential benefits to residents and the environment:

• Build Stronger Communities: Neighborhoods with more tree coverage, experience lower crime rates and foster social connections. Green spaces invite outdoor activities, creating safer, more welcoming environments.
• Improve Health and Well-Being: Trees improve air quality by filtering pollutants and reducing respiratory conditions like asthma. They also promote mental wellness by reducing stress and encouraging outdoor activity. 
• Boost the Economy: Trees enhance property values, attract visitors, and reduce energy costs by shading buildings. These economic benefits ripple through the community, making tree-lined streets and parks valuable to both businesses and homeowners. 
• Support Sustainability: Urban tree canopy helps manage stormwater, reduce flooding, and provide habitats for wildlife. They also cool our neighborhoods, reducing the urban heat island effect and making summers more comfortable.

Do you have ideas for the tree canopy across Gwinnett? We want to hear from you! Join us for exciting engagement activities to share your vision of how the community could improve. Check out the opportunities below — we hope to see you there!