Deer Population
About a year and a half ago, the City began receiving increased reports from residents regarding deer-related concerns—larger herd sizes, more frequent sightings, significant property damage, and near collisions with vehicles. In response, we began exploring solutions.
What We've Done So Far
Georgia law does not allow local municipalities to independently manage wildlife populations. Only the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has that authority.
We initiated a dialogue with DNR, and they indicated a willingness to consider implementing a state-managed deer management program in Peachtree Corners—but only if a legitimate need could be demonstrated through data.
To gather that data, we launched a citywide deer survey approximately five months ago. We received 798 individual household responses—a remarkable participation rate for this type of effort. Based on the survey responses, we compiled an overview report and shared it with the state.
State officials then requested physical, on-the-ground assessment of deer activity to supplement the survey results. They tasked the City with deploying wildlife game cameras in designated zones.
What's Happening Now
Using survey data, we mapped a corridor of high deer activity—particularly between our park system and the Chattahoochee River and down along Peachtree Parkway. We divided this corridor into 20 equal grid sections, based on the acreage coverage standards provided by the state.
Within those 20 grids, we identified 135 private residential properties as potential candidates for on-site game camera placement. Working with those properties, we have received approval to place cameras on 20 sites. The cameras will be placed on 10 sites for 21 days, removed and placed on the remaining 10 for 21 days. All cameras will then be removed.
What Happens Afterward
All images and data collected will be submitted to the state’s wildlife authorities for review. Based on their analysis, they will decide whether to implement a deer management program in Peachtree Corners. Possible outcomes could range from no program being offered to increased public awareness campaigns to direct wildlife management strategies such as a population control effort (i.e., a targeted cull).
The City of Peachtree Corners is taking a closer look at its growing deer population following a rise in resident concerns and on-the-ground observations indicating that numbers may have exceeded sustainable levels. Residents have reported more frequent deer-vehicle collisions, extensive property damage, and concerns over the environmental impacts from over-browsing.
To address these concerns, the City launched a two-part initiative:
- A Resident Impact Survey – to capture the community’s experiences.
- A Camera-Based Population Study – conducted by a wildlife biologist to determine herd size and characteristics.
The impact survey concluded in July 2025 with 798 responses. Findings revealed that deer sightings are common, and impacts are widespread.
Read the Deer Population Survey Report (PDF)
The population study began August 8, 2025, and will run through September 19, 2025. The City has been divided into 20 distinct 100-acre zones, with wildlife cameras deployed in 10 zones for 21 days before moving to the remaining 10 zones for another 21 days. The biologist will assess buck-to-doe ratios, estimate population density, and evaluate habitat use. A final report is expected by early December 2025.
Once the study is complete, the findings will be made available to residents and sent to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and USDA Wildlife Services—the only agencies authorized to manage deer populations in Georgia.
The City continues to work closely with Georgia DNR and USDA Wildlife Services to explore viable deer population control strategies. While final options will depend on the results of the population study, City staff are actively working with the agencies on potential solutions to present alongside the study’s findings. The exact timing of when Georgia DNR and USDA Wildlife Services may be able to finalize and offer potential management options to property owners will depend on their review of the final report and resources required.
Because most deer are on private property, any management strategies developed by Georgia DNR and USDA Wildlife Services will be voluntary and subject to property owner approval. Under Georgia law, the City does not have the authority to conduct deer management activities such as trapping, relocation, or sterilization. The City’s role is limited to collecting data, facilitating communication, and supporting property owners interested in implementing recommended strategies.
By combining community input with scientific data, Peachtree Corners aims to ensure any future actions are well-informed, locally appropriate, and respectful of both residents and wildlife.