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The State Botanical Garden will close daily at 4 p.m. through Jan. 5, 2025, for Winter WonderLights.

Garden Guidelines

The following guidelines respect the habitats of all creatures and plants located at the garden.

  • No pets are allowed on garden property, with the exception of service animals. Service animals are defined as dogs that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities. Service animals must be harnessed, leashed or tethered, unless these devices interfere with the service animal’s work or the individual’s disability prevents using these devices.
  • You are welcome to take personal photography of the garden flora and fauna. Any professional photography requires a photo permit. For more information, see our photography policy.
  • The garden is a tobacco-free environment. Smoking and tobacco use (including smokeless cigarettes) is not allowed indoors or outdoors within the garden.

For more about what is permitted at the garden, please review our Visitor Guidelines.


The State Botanical Garden of Georgia is part of the University of Georgia’s Athens Campus. As such, policies set forth on UGA’s campus also apply to the garden. For more information about the university’s policies, visit UGA’s Policy Library.


Athens, Georgia, is home to many wonderful restaurants, stores, entertainment venues and museums. The Visit Athens website has plenty of suggestions to plan your visit!

Photography Policy

Professional photography at the garden requires a photo permit. For more information, see our photography policy.

Filming Policy

If you are interested in filming at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, you must obtain formal, written permission. UGA’s external filming policy has more information and the location request form.

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