I am needing to address a few properties that have accumulations of fallen or cut trees.  Does anyone have an ordinance specifically for downed trees or any suggestions of how to handle this issue?  Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks!

K. Anderson - once it is on th eground it becomes tree debris. Does your jurisdiction have an ordinance regulating tree debris?

Keith C - We do not have an ordinance regulating tree debris.  Although, I feel we could add an additional clause to our existing ordinance for maintenance and upkeep of landscaping to include tree debris.  Thank you for your help.

You really should. How about anything regulating just accumulation of debris?

Debris is not addressed in our accumulation ordinance either.  If you have anything pertaining to such, would you please share that information with me?

Here is what we at Brookhaven use in our zoning. Debris includes yard waste in our definitions.

(b) Debris. There shall not be maintained on a property for more than seven calendar days any used or damaged lumber, junk, trash, debris, scrap metal, concrete, sand, asphalt, cans, bottles, tires, salvage materials, boxes, containers, bins, and abandoned, discarded, inoperative or unusable furniture, stove, refrigerator, freezer, sink, toilet, cabinet or other household fixtures, yard waste or equipment stored so as to be visible from public street, alley or from an adjoining property unless appropriate permits have been obtained from the county. Nothing herein shall preclude the placement of stacked firewood for use on the premises in the side or rear yards of the premises.

Our ordinance gives residents 7 days to remove the addressed debris.

The IPMC does not address the accumulation of yard waste. This will have to be something your jurisdiction will have to adopt internally. Gwinnett County has a good tree debris section:

Tree debris. Felled trees, slash, or removed tree limbs shall not be permitted or maintained on the ground on any premises for more than 14 days.

Exceptions:

(1) Property covered by a valid land disturbing permit;

(2) Cut wood which is neatly stacked in lengths not to exceed three feet and which is stored in a side or rear yard;

(3) Property zoned RA-200 (Agriculture-Residence District);

(4) Composting activities which comply with state law.

Thank you for sharing.  You have been a tremendous help.