Clark County, WA Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in Clark County, WA, sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances, list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Key Facts
- Forest practice permit
- RCW 76.09 / CCC 40.260.080
- Critical areas
- Review near wetlands/habitat
- Moratorium
- 6 years after DNR-approved cut
- Retained trees
- Protect at dripline
- Single yard tree
- Usually no county permit
Summary
Clark County regulates tree removal mainly through the state Forest Practices Act (RCW 76.09) and CCC 40.260.080, plus critical-area review near wetlands, streams, and habitat. A commercial forest-practice cut approved by DNR triggers a six-year development moratorium on the parcel. Development-required trees must also be protected during construction.
Existing trees and plant materials to be retained shall be protected during construction, such as by use of chain link or other sturdy fence placed at the dripline of trees to be retained. Grading, topsoil storage, construction material storage, vehicles and equipment shall not be allowed within the dripline of trees to be retained.
Full Breakdown
For timber harvest in unincorporated Clark County, a forest practices permit under RCW 76.09 and CCC 40.260.080 applies. Removing trees in or near critical areas needs Wetland and Habitat Review (CCC 40.440/40.450). During development, CCC 40.320.010 requires existing trees to be retained to be protected at the dripline with fencing, and prohibits grading or storage within the dripline. There is generally no permit for felling a single ordinary yard tree outside these areas.
Violations & Fines
Illegal clearing, unpermitted forest practices, or destruction of retained trees can bring stop-work orders, mandatory restoration, and civil penalties under Title 40; DNR enforces the six-year moratorium.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I need a forest practices permit?
How are trees protected during construction?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Clark County
Compare Clark County to another location·View the Washington landscaping rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.