Tree Protection in Bellevue, WA (2026)
2 verified tree protection rules for Bellevue, Washington, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Heritage & Protected Trees
Removing a landmark tree in Bellevue needs a clearing and grading permit and triggers replanting: three replacement trees per landmark tree removed, or two large conifers if the director approves. Illegal removal draws a monetary penalty set at the greater of the code's in-lieu fee or full replacement value, doubled for repeat violations.
Bellevue Landmark Tree Removal and Replacement Rules
Some RestrictionsBellevue City Code § 23.76.060(G)(2)
2. Replanting Requirements. Except as otherwise provided in subsection (G)(1) of this section, any removal of a significant tree or a landmark tree shall require replanting in accordance with the following standards: a. Replacement Tree Minimum Standards. Each replacement tree shall be single-stemmed and a minimum of two inches caliper (for deciduous trees) or single-stemmed and six feet in hei...
Parkway Planting
Bellevue requires street landscaping and tree planting along public streets whenever street frontage improvements are triggered by new development, subject to species and maintenance rules in BCC 14.60.120.
Bellevue Street Tree Planting Standards
Some RestrictionsBellevue City Code § 14.60.120(C)-(D)
C. Preservation of Existing Street Trees and Landscaping. 1. Retention of existing vegetation may be required along city streets. When retention is not feasible, native plant species or species with a proven ability to survive in an urban environment are preferred for landscaping. ... D. Street Tree and Landscaping Installation Requirement. 1. Street landscape installation or improvement is req...
Looking for King County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Bellevue city rules.
Tree Protection in King County →