Everett's Landscaping Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles landscaping rules a little differently. In Everett, Washington, there are 8 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Tree Trimming

Everett protects significant trees and has an urban forestry program. Mature evergreen canopy management is important in established neighborhoods. Tree removal permits required above diameter thresholds.

Key details: Significant Trees: Permit for removal. Urban Forestry: City program active. Evergreens: Douglas fir, cedar. Replacement: Required for removal.

Unauthorized removal of protected trees: $500 to $15,000+ per tree. Replacement planting required (often 3:1 ratio).

Grass Height Limits

Everett enforces maximum grass and weed height. Overgrown properties subject to code compliance action and city abatement at owner's expense.

Key details: Max Height: 10 to 12 inches typical. Notice: 10-day compliance. Abatement: City lien if not mowed. Climate: Rapid growth in wet season.

Notice to abate. City mowing at owner's expense ($200 to $500+). Administrative fees. Property lien.

Weed Ordinances

Everett enforces weed abatement. WA has county Noxious Weed Control Boards (RCW 17.10) requiring property owners to control listed invasive species.

Key details: Authority: City + County Weed Board. State Law: RCW 17.10 (Noxious Weeds). Common Targets: Scotch broom, blackberry. Native Plants: Encouraged as alternatives.

Notice to abate. City clears at owner's expense ($200 to $1,000+). Noxious weed violations: county enforcement + fines.

Water Restrictions

Everett enforces water conservation under local water utility rules. Despite abundant rainfall, summer drought restrictions possible. WA water rights system applies.

Key details: Summer Dry: July to September drought possible. Water Rights: Prior appropriation system. Rain Gardens: Encouraged. Restrictions: Per local water utility.

Water waste: warning, then fines $50 to $250. Drought stage violations: escalating fines. Water utility surcharges possible.

Rainwater Harvesting

Everett allows residential rainwater harvesting. Washington has no significant state-level restrictions on rainwater collection for personal use.

Key details: Restrictions: None for residential use. Permits: Large systems may need one. Potable Use: Treatment system required. Topic: Rainwater Harvesting.

No penalties for standard residential collection. Large cistern installations without building permit: standard building code violation $100 to $500.

Everett is more permissive than most cities when it comes to rainwater harvesting. That said, there are still limits.

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Everett regulates tree removal on private property through permits and size thresholds. Street trees are city-managed and cannot be removed by residents.

Key details: Permit Threshold: 6 to 12 inch trunk diameter. Street Trees: City-managed only. Replacement: Required for removed trees. Hazardous Trees: Expedited process.

Unauthorized removal: $500 to $10,000 per tree. Replacement planting required. Street tree damage: city restitution costs.

Artificial Turf

Everett generally permits artificial turf installation with some requirements for drainage, appearance, and base preparation.

Key details: Permits: Usually not required. Drainage: Proper base required. HOA: Cannot ban in many states. Heat: Can reach 150F+ in sun.

Generally no penalties for installation. Non-compliant drainage may require correction. HOA fines may be unenforceable where state law protects turf rights.

If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find Everett gives residents more flexibility on artificial turf.

Native Plants

Everett may encourage or require native and drought-tolerant landscaping. Some areas restrict traditional grass lawns in favor of water-efficient alternatives.

Key details: Xeriscaping: Encouraged or required. HOA: Cannot ban in many states. Rebates: May be available. Invasive Species: Removal may be required.

Varies by jurisdiction. HOA fines for non-compliance may be unenforceable if state law protects xeriscaping rights.

Everett is more permissive than most cities when it comes to native plants. That said, there are still limits.

The Bottom Line

Compared to many U.S. cities, Everett gives residents more room on landscaping rules. 3 of the 8 rules here are rated permissive. But permissive does not mean unregulated. There are still requirements, and the city does enforce them when violations are reported.

This guide is based on Everett's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.