Tree removal permit rules in Seattle, WA — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Seattle's Tree Protection Code (SMC 25.11, effective July 30, 2023) classifies trees by tier. Tier 2 trees generally cannot be removed except for hazard. Tree removal typically requires SDCI approval. All tree work must be done by a Registered Tree Service Provider (RTSP) since August 2024. Violations: up to 3x tree appraised value.
SMC 25.11 (effective July 30, 2023) creates a tiered classification. Tier 1 and Tier 2 trees are most protected. Tier 3/4 trees have limited exemptions (e.g., up to 2 Tier 4 trees per 3-year period in residential zones with no development). All removal must be done by or supervised by an ISA-certified RTSP. Fees vary by request type (Land Use hourly rate). Replacement planting required for most Tier 1–3 removals. Payment in lieu of planting available per Director's Rule 8-2023.
Civil fines up to 3x appraised tree value; may exceed $10,000 per tree.
Seattle, WA
Seattle's Land Use Code allows residential lawn ornaments, statuary, and yard art without permits provided structures do not exceed accessory-structure heigh...
Seattle, WA
Seattle does not regulate residential inflatable holiday decorations by size or type. Standard Noise Ordinance (SMC 25.08) limits apply to blower-motor noise...
Seattle, WA
Seattle has no ordinance restricting when residents may put up or take down holiday lights. The general Noise Ordinance SMC 25.08 applies to any amplified ou...
Seattle, WA
Built-in outdoor kitchens in Seattle require building permits from SDCI when they include new electrical, plumbing, gas piping, or a structural roof under Se...
Seattle, WA
Backyard wood and pellet smokers in Seattle are allowed at single-family homes but are subject to Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA) Regulation I, Section ...
Seattle, WA
Seattle Fire Code Section 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devices and LP-gas containers larger than 1 lb on combustible balconies of multi-family buildi...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in King County.
See how other cities in King County handle tree removal & heritage trees.
See how Seattle's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.