How Spokane Handles Tree Protection: A Practical Guide

Spokane maintains 198 local ordinances across all categories, and 3 of those deal specifically with tree protection. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Spokane falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Tree Removal Permits

Spokane Tree Code SMC Chapter 12 requires a permit before removing, topping, or significantly pruning any tree in the public right-of-way or on city property, with replacement requirements for removed mature trees.

Key details: Code: SMC Ch. 12. Permit Cost: Free for ROW. Topping: Prohibited. Replacement: Often required.

Unpermitted street tree removal carries fines up to $500 per tree plus restitution equal to appraised tree value, often several hundred to several thousand dollars per mature tree.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Spokane actively enforces its tree removal permits requirements.

Urban Forest Equity

Spokane's Urban Forestry program and SpoCanopy partnership target tree planting in low-canopy neighborhoods like East Central, West Central, and Hillyard to address heat exposure disparities and historic underinvestment.

Key details: Program: SpoCanopy partnership. Target Areas: Low-canopy neighborhoods. Cost: Free or low-cost. Topic: Urban Forest Equity.

No fines tied to canopy equity. Trees planted under the program are still subject to SMC Ch. 12 maintenance and removal rules once installed.

The rules around urban forest equity in Spokane lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.

Parkway Planting

Spokane Urban Forestry approves species, spacing, and placement for trees planted in parking strips between sidewalk and curb, ensuring compatibility with overhead lines, sight triangles, and underground utilities.

Key details: Permit: Free, required. Species: Approved list only. Spacing: 25-40 feet typical. Topic: Parkway Planting.

Unpermitted parkway plantings can be removed at owner expense. Improper species or placement may trigger removal orders and fines under SMC Ch. 12.

The Bottom Line

Spokane's tree protection rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Spokane is broadly strict or permissive.

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