Tacoma's Tree Protection: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles tree protection a little differently. In Tacoma, Washington, there are 2 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 Removal Permits

TMC 13.06.090 requires a permit to remove regulated trees on most private property, with mandatory replacement at ratios that scale with tree size and stricter rules in critical areas.

Key details: Code: TMC 13.06.090. Trigger: 6 inch DBH. Replacement: 1 to 1 or higher. Goal: 30 percent canopy.

Cutting a regulated tree without a permit carries fines up to 1,000 dollars per tree plus mandatory replanting under TMC 13.06.090.

Tree Replacement Requirements

When trees are removed under permit, Tacoma requires replanting on site at ratios from 1 to 1 up to 3 to 1, or payment into a tree fund if site capacity is exceeded.

Key details: Small tree: 1 to 1 ratio. Mid tree: 2 to 1 ratio. Heritage: 3 to 1 ratio. Warranty: Two years.

Failure to install or maintain replacement trees through the warranty period can trigger fines and additional tree fund payments under code enforcement.

The Bottom Line

Tacoma'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 Tacoma is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Tacoma can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.