§ 19.1. Purpose.

This tree preservation ordinance has been developed to benefit the environmental and aesthetic quality of Troup County. The intent is to create an opportunity and promote preservation of the county's natural resources and grow in a way that will provide a healthy environment for the future of Troup County. The purpose of this tree preservation ordinance is to provide standards for the preservation of trees as part of the land development process; to prevent massive grading of land, both developed and undeveloped, without provision for replacement of trees; and to protect trees during construction whenever possible in order to enhance the quality of life within Troup County. The regulations of this tree preservation ordinance shall be the definitive, unless otherwise directed by the zoning ordinance or county code. The benefits derived from this tree preservation ordinance include:

1.

Provide visual buffering and enhance beautification of the county;

2.

Moderation of storm water runoff, and improved water quality;

3.

Protect and attempt to enhance property values, thus safeguarding private and public investment;

4.

Protect the unique identity of Troup County by promoting native plants;

5.

Control soil erosion;

6.

Reduction of some air pollutants and interception of airborne particulate matter;

7.

Preserve stands of trees and "specimen" trees; and

8.

Protect natural vegetation except where its removal is necessary for responsible property development or control of disease and infestation.

This article shall serve to dissuade the unnecessary clearing of land and its disturbance, so as to preserve, insofar as possible, the natural and existing growth of vegetation and to replace whenever possible the removed foliage with new vegetation.