YardCareDirectory

Washington Tree Removal Permit Requirements

PERMIT LIKELY REQUIRED

No statewide permit for private property, but Washington cities — particularly Seattle — have comprehensive tree codes. Salmon-bearing watershed rules add complexity statewide.

Issuing authority: City urban forestry department or planning department
Permit Fee
$75–$400 depending on jurisdiction
Processing Time
10–30 business days
Protected Species
5
City Rules Listed
4
Protected Species in WA
Western Hemlock (state tree)Douglas FirWestern Red CedarPacific MadroneOregon White Oak
These species commonly trigger permit requirements or stricter review in Washington jurisdictions. Check with your specific city — protections vary by municipality.
Common Exemptions
  • +Dead trees (documentation required)
  • +Imminent hazard (arborist cert required)
  • +Trees under 6 inches DBH
  • +Invasive species on approved list

Exemptions still often require documentation. Bring photos, contractor assessments, or an ISA-certified arborist report to support a hazard or disease claim.

Heritage Trees

Seattle's Exceptional Tree program protects over 100 designated specimens. Many other Washington cities have landmark tree programs.

Penalties for Unpermitted Removal

Seattle fines for unpermitted removal of exceptional or significant trees start at $1,000 per tree and can reach $25,000 for exceptional trees. Replacement at 3:1 required.

Rules by City in Washington

Seattle

All significant trees (over 6 inches DBH) require permits. Exceptional trees require Director approval and can be denied outright.

Fee: $175 base fee + arborist reportSeattle's 2023 updated Tree Ordinance significantly strengthened protections and added a city tree registry.
Bellevue

Trees over 12 inches DBH require permits. Significant trees in development zones face additional restrictions.

Fee: $100–$300Bellevue's critical area overlay adds rules near wetlands and streams.
Tacoma

Trees over 6 inches DBH in regulated zones require permits. Street trees are city property.

Fee: $75 per treeCommencement Bay watershed adds restrictions in some areas.
Spokane

Street trees require permits. Private property has more limited regulation than western Washington cities.

Fee: $50 feeSpokane River corridor has additional buffer rules.
Tips for Washington Homeowners
  1. Seattle's 2023 tree ordinance is one of the most comprehensive in the country — compliance is mandatory and enforcement is active.
  2. Washington's critical areas ordinance means trees near streams, wetlands, and steep slopes face additional review regardless of city rules.
  3. Pacific madrone is a difficult species to remove in any Washington jurisdiction — its cultural value means scrutiny even when technically permitted.
HOA Consideration: Seattle's dense urban neighborhoods have active neighborhood coalitions with standing to participate in permit processes — community opposition can slow or block removals.
Find tree services in Washington that handle permits
Licensed professionals know local rules and will pull permits for you.
Tree Services in Washington