Tree removal permit rules in Tacoma, WA — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Tacoma regulates tree removal through its environmental and land use codes. Washington State has strong tree and stormwater protections. Development projects must account for significant trees and may require replacement plantings.
Tacoma's environmental code protects significant trees on private property. Tree removal in environmentally sensitive areas (steep slopes, stream buffers, wetland buffers) requires a permit. Development projects must submit tree preservation plans. City street trees require permission for removal. Washington State's Growth Management Act influences tree protection policies. Heritage and landmark trees may have additional protections.
Unauthorized tree removal in sensitive areas results in fines and replacement requirements at specified ratios.
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma allows residential lawn ornaments and yard art without permits provided they do not exceed the 15-foot accessory-structure height limit in TMC 13.06 a...
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma does not regulate residential inflatable holiday decorations by size or type. The Noise Code (TMC 8.122) applies to continuously running blower motors...
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma has no ordinance restricting when residents may put up or take down holiday lights. The general Noise Ordinance at TMC 8.122 applies to any amplified ...
Tacoma, WA
Built-in outdoor kitchens in Tacoma require building permits from Planning and Development Services (PDS) when they include new electrical, plumbing, gas pip...
Tacoma, WA
Backyard wood and pellet smokers in Tacoma single-family yards are permitted but subject to Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA) Regulation I, Section 9.11, ...
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma adopts the International Fire Code through TMC Title 3 (Fire Prevention) as Tacoma Fire Code. IFC Section 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devices...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in this county.
See how other cities in this county handle tree removal & heritage trees.
See how Tacoma's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
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