Tree Protection in Federal Way, WA (2026)
4 verified tree protection rules for Federal Way, Washington, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Tree Removal Permits
FWRC 19.120.040 prohibits removing any trees on a site without first obtaining approval of a tree retention plan by the director. Clearing, grading, filling, or drainage alteration also requires city approval per FWRC 19.120.040(1).
Federal Way Tree Removal Permits (FWRC 19.120)
Heavy RestrictionsHeritage & Protected Trees
Federal Way does not have a dedicated heritage-tree program, but FWRC 19.120 protects "significant trees," defined under FWRC 19.05.190 as trees of 12-inch DBH or greater for evergreens and most deciduous species (excluding red alder, cottonwood, and big-leaf maple).
Federal Way Significant Trees (FWRC 19.05.190)
Some RestrictionsTree Replacement Requirements
FWRC 19.120.130 requires single-family residential sites to maintain a minimum of 25 tree units per acre, and multifamily/commercial/industrial sites to maintain a minimum of 20 tree units per acre. Replacement plantings must meet the size and species standards set in FWRC 19.120.130(4).
Federal Way Tree Replacement Requirements (FWRC 19.120.130)
Some RestrictionsTree Ordinances
FWRC Chapter 19.120 is Federal Way's comprehensive tree and vegetation retention ordinance. It regulates clearing, grading, tree removal, replacement, and protection during construction citywide.
Federal Way Tree and Vegetation Retention (FWRC 19.120)
Some RestrictionsLooking for King County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Federal Way city rules.
Tree Protection in King County →