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:
- 96% of respondents do not feed deer on their property.
- 87% see deer on their property daily or weekly.
- 74% have experienced deer-related property damage.
- 66% typically see groups of three or more deer.
- 62% use deterrents, with mixed success.
- 53% have witnessed or experienced deer-vehicle collisions, particularly on East Jones Bridge, Spalding Drive, and Peachtree Corners Circle.
Open-ended comments highlighted strong concerns over overpopulation, traffic hazards, and safety, along with requests for humane population control.
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.