Many of the streams in the City of Dunwoody have buffer zones. A buffer is a strip of natural vegetation along the bank of a stream, lake or other water body that separates the water from developed areas such as lawns, buildings, roads, driveways, etc. 

Georgia has several laws and regulations that apply to stream buffers. The Georgia Erosion and Sedimentation Control Act restricts land disturbance and trimming of vegetation within a 25-foot buffer adjacent to creeks, streams, rivers, saltwater marshes, and most lakes and ponds. Dunwoody has established its own buffer requirements which require an additional 50 feet for a total of 75 feet of undisturbed area around streams. In general, no land disturbance or tree removal is allowed within the established 75-foot buffer without proper permits from the State and/or Dunwoody.  Unpermitted work within stream buffers may result in citations which could carry penalties of up to $1000 per violation or up to six months in jail.

All of the buffers within the City limits have been mapped. The Dunwoody SmartMap found on the City’s website shows the 75-foot buffers throughout the city. You’ll also find markings for the 25-foot state stream buffers, which are regulated separately.

Link to SmartMap with stream buffers marked

Keep in mind, some streams and water bodies are easy to identify, while others may seem to function only as a ditch that carries stormwater during and immediately after rainfall or may carry water only in the winter or spring. What appears to be a ditch may be a protected stream. For homeowners, contractors and developers who have questions or want to request a permit or variance, reach out to Dunwoody Community Development before doing any work within or close to a stream buffer: permits@dunwoodyga.gov, 678-382-6821

There are many reasons why it is important to protect stream buffers:

• Buffers stabilize stream banks and prevent erosion.
• Buffers allow water to percolate through soil and replenish groundwater.
• Slowing runoff through a buffer helps prevent flooding which saves money to property owners.
• Shade provided by vegetation keeps stream water cooler.
• Sediment and chemicals from stormwater runoff are captured by buffers which help protect drinking water and aquatic habitat.

There are several ways property owners can help protect the buffers on their properties:

• Don’t mow to the edge of a stream or lake. Allow natural vegetation within the buffer.
• Don’t cut or remove trees within the buffer without first consulting with an Arborist.
• Never dump material into a stream (including lawn clippings, other yard debris, etc).
• Sparingly use pesticides and fertilizers on lawns and never use them within the buffer.
• Don’t use rocks to stop stream bank erosion. Vegetative solutions are preferred.

Use this link to learn more about state stream buffers.