Tree Removal Permits: Bellevue vs Federal Way
How do tree removal permits rules compare between Bellevue, WA and Federal Way, WA?
Bellevue and Federal Way have similar restriction levels.
Bellevue, WA
King County
KCC 16.82 requires clearing and grading permits before removing significant trees in unincorporated King County, with stricter limits on critical area buffers, steep slopes, and rural retention areas under the Critical Areas Ordinance.
View full Bellevue rules →Federal Way, WA
King County
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).
View full Federal Way rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bellevue | Federal Way |
|---|---|---|
| Primary code | KCC 16.82 | - |
| Buffer rules | KCC 21A.24 critical areas | - |
| Rural retention | KCC 21A.38 | - |
| Max penalty | $1,000 per tree daily | - |
| Code Section | - | FWRC 19.120.040 |
| Permit Required | - | Tree retention plan before removal |
| Exemptions | - | FWRC 19.120.030 |
| Mitigation | - | Fee-in-lieu to urban forestry account |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bellevue FAQ
Can I remove a hazard tree without a permit?
Often yes if an ISA-certified arborist documents the hazard, but trees inside critical area buffers usually still require notice or limited approval before removal.
Do I need to replace removed trees?
Yes in most cases. Replacement ratios depend on tree size, location, and whether removal occurred in a buffer or rural retention area.
Federal Way FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Federal Way?
Yes — FWRC 19.120.040 requires an approved tree retention plan before removing trees, unless the activity falls within the exemptions listed in FWRC 19.120.030 (e.g., certified hazardous trees or limited removal of small trees on improved single-family lots).
Can I pay a fee instead of retaining trees?
Yes. If you cannot meet the required tree units per acre on site, you may request approval for off-site mitigation or pay a fee-in-lieu into the city's urban forestry account under FWRC 19.120.140.
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