Landscaping
Updates
Overview
Georgia highway beautification may be part of a number of Department programs. The Georgia DOT Landscape Guide coordinates established safety standards with aesthetic and environmental considerations on the State rights of way. GDOT Maintenance reviews landscape plans for compliance with these issues.
Before You Begin
Your first step is to contact the Georgia DOT. Most requests to landscape areas that fall within the right of way adjacent to your home or business go to the Georgia DOT District Access Management Supervisor for a special encroachment permit.
The Georgia DOT District Roadside Enhancement Coordinator can answer questions about the Wildflower and Adopt-A-Highway programs.
Landscape plans are reviewed for safety, appropriate plant material, and maintenance requirements. Preservation and enhancement using existing and native plant material is a major emphasis. Horizontal clearance minimums and clear sight distances are required. For safety reasons, planting large plants in the medians is discouraged.
The Georgia DOT District offices are available for questions about available grants.
Resources for Landscaping on State Right-of-Way
Invasive Plants
What not to Wear on the Right-of-Way – The Georgia DOT reviews proposals for enhancement on the right of way to prevent the addition of invasive plant material. The Georgia Exotic Pest Plant Council maintains a list of plants with photos that cause environmental harm to the natural ecosystem.
Contact Information
For more information regarding landscaping on the right of way please contact your Landscape Architecture unit of GDOT Maintenance at landscape@dot.ga.gov.