Bellevue, WA Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)

Bellevue has some of the strictest tree protection rules in Washington state. Under Land Use Code LUC 20.50 and clearing and grading regulations, single-family residential properties may remove up to 3 significant trees (defined as 6 inches or greater diameter at 4.5 feet above ground for conifers or 10 inches for most deciduous) per 3-year rolling period without a permit. Removal beyond this limit requires a Clearing and Grading Permit from Development Services. Landmark Trees (exceptional specimens typically 30 inches or greater diameter, rare species, or historically significant) receive highest protection and cannot be removed without special approval. Trees in Critical Areas including wetland buffers, stream buffers, steep slope hazard areas, and shoreline zones require critical areas permits regardless of count. Hazardous dead or dying trees posing imminent safety risks can often be removed under emergency provisions but should be documented with arborist report. Replacement planting is typically required - often one tree of specified caliper for each removed. Violations carry fines up to 5000 dollars per tree and mandatory replanting.