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Hazard Tree Assessment in Savannah

Last reviewed October 18, 2026 · General information, not legal advice · Sources at the bottom

Why a written assessment matters here: in the City of Savannah, a tree an ISA Certified Arborist finds hazardous is exempt from the permit requirement, but the written assessment must be approved by the City before removal.1 In Georgia, a neighbor who knew or should have known a tree was dead or diseased (for example, after a written arborist warning) can be responsible if it falls.2

Warning signs worth a professional look

  • Dead branches or a thinning crown, especially on one side
  • Cracks or splits in the trunk or where large limbs meet
  • Mushrooms, conks or soft, crumbly wood at the base or on roots
  • A lean that's new or getting worse, or soil heaving on one side
  • Roots cut or compacted by construction, driveways or trenching
  • Large limbs hanging over the roof, driveway, play areas or power lines

Who does tree risk assessments

The International Society of Arboriculture offers a Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ). It requires a 2-day course plus an assessment and must be renewed every 5 years.3 An ISA Certified Arborist can also evaluate trees. You can verify either credential with the ISA lookup.4 Ask for the findings in writing, with photos and recommendations.

How a written assessment helps you

  • Permits: Savannah's hazardous-tree exemption depends on an ISA Certified Arborist's written assessment approved by the City.1 Garden City exempts removal of diseased or infested trees on the written finding of a certified arborist, the extension service or the Georgia Forestry Commission.5 Richmond Hill allows removal of a tree in imminent danger once inspected and certified in writing to the City by the City or a certified arborist or forester.6
  • Insurance: the Insurance Information Institute notes damage from a poorly maintained tree may not be covered.7 Documenting that you acted on advice helps.
  • Neighbors: if a neighbor's tree worries you, Georgia's consumer office says written notice from an arborist can shift responsibility if it later falls.2

What an assessment costs

Angi's 2026 national data puts a tree inspection at roughly $30–$300 as an add-on to tree work.8 Standalone written risk reports can cost more. Ask for the price up front.

Want a local company to quote your hazard tree assessment? Tell us what you need and we'll pass your request along to an independent tree company serving your area, when one is available. It's free for homeowners, and responses aren't guaranteed. We're a referral service, not a tree contractor.

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Areas: Historic District, Midtown, Ardsley Park, Southside, Isle of Hope, Skidaway Island, Wilmington Island, Whitemarsh Island, Tybee Island, Thunderbolt, Georgetown, Pooler, Richmond Hill, Port Wentworth, Garden City.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if a tree is dangerous?

Warning signs include dead branches, cracks in the trunk, fungus or decay at the base, a new or worsening lean, and damaged roots. A qualified arborist, such as one with ISA's Tree Risk Assessment Qualification, can evaluate it.3

Can I remove a hazardous tree without a permit in Savannah?

The City of Savannah exempts trees that an ISA Certified Arborist finds hazardous, but the written assessment must be submitted to and approved by the City before removal.1

What is TRAQ?

ISA's Tree Risk Assessment Qualification is a credential for assessing tree risk. It requires a 2-day course and an assessment and is renewed every 5 years.3

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Free for homeowners. We're a referral service, not a tree company. Prefer to talk? Call (843) 608-8793. If there is immediate danger or a downed power line, call 911 first.

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Sources

  1. City of Savannah, Landscape and Tree Protection Ordinance (approved March 16, 2017, PDF). www.savannahga.gov
  2. Georgia Dept. of Law Consumer Protection Division, "Ask Ed": my neighbor's tree fell on my property. consumered.georgia.gov
  3. ISA, Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ). www.isa-arbor.com
  4. ISA (TreesAreGood.org), Verify an arborist credential. www.treesaregood.org
  5. Garden City zoning code Ch. 90 Art. VIII, text copy (Zoneomics). www.zoneomics.com
  6. City of Richmond Hill Unified Development Ordinance, Sec. 15.6 Tree Protection (PDF). www.richmondhill-ga.gov
  7. Insurance Information Institute, If a tree falls on your house, are you covered?. www-legacy.iii.org
  8. Angi, How much does professional tree trimming cost? (2026 national data). www.angi.com