Auburn vs Federal Way
How do tree trimming rules compare between Auburn, WA and Federal Way, WA?
Auburn and Federal Way have similar restriction levels.
Auburn, WA
King County
Auburn regulates tree pruning under ACC 18.76 Tree Preservation. Trimming of significant trees over 6 in DBH must follow ANSI A300; topping is discouraged. ROW branches under 14 ft must be trimmed.
View full Auburn rules →Federal Way, WA
King County
Federal Way tree trimming is governed by FWRC 19.120 and 4.35. Routine pruning needs no permit, but heavy pruning or topping of a significant tree that removes over 25% of canopy may count as removal.
View full Federal Way rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Federal Way |
|---|---|---|
| Significant Tree DBH | 6 inches most species | - |
| Topping | Discouraged, may be removal | - |
| Street Clearance | 14 ft required | 14 ft minimum |
| Sidewalk Clearance | 8 ft required | 8 ft minimum |
| Code | ACC 18.76 and 12.56 | FWRC 19.120 + 4.35 |
| Routine Prune | - | No permit |
| Major Prune | - | May need permit (>25%) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Auburn FAQ
Do I need a permit to trim my own tree in Auburn?
No permit is needed for routine pruning that does not remove the tree or excessively reduce the canopy. Heavy topping of significant trees may be treated as removal and require a tree removal permit under ACC 18.76.
My neighbor branches overhang my yard. Can I trim them?
Yes, you may trim back to the property line without permission, but you cannot cross onto their property, top the tree, or take action that kills it. Use a licensed arborist for large limbs.
Who trims trees that block the street?
The adjacent property owner. ACC 12.56 requires 14 ft clearance over streets and 8 ft over sidewalks. Auburn Public Works can do the work and bill the owner if they fail to comply.
Federal Way FAQ
Can I trim my own trees in Federal Way without a permit?
Yes, for routine pruning that does not damage the tree or remove more than 25 percent of the canopy. Aggressive pruning of significant trees may be treated as removal and require review.
Am I required to trim branches hanging over the sidewalk?
Yes. FWRC 4.35 requires property owners to maintain at least 8 feet of vertical clearance over sidewalks and 14 feet over streets.
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