For new development, retained trees must be fenced at the drip line and not disturbed. Abutting owners may trim weeds, grass, brush and blackberries in the first 10 feet of an unopened right-of-way, but may not cut significant trees there.
SCC 30.25.016(7) requires tree-protective fencing along the outer edge of the drip line of retained trees during clearing or construction, at least three feet high, that must not be moved to allow grading, with "Tree Protection Area" signs posted. Separately, SCC 13.10.050(7) lets an abutting property owner trim, prune, or remove weeds, grass, brush, blackberries and similar vegetation in the first 10 feet of an unopened deeded right-of-way abutting their property, provided significant trees (as defined in Title 30) are not removed. Routine pruning and maintenance of trees on your own lot is exempt from tree-canopy rules under SCC 30.25.016(1)(e).
Removing or damaging a protected/retained significant tree is subject to a fine under SCC Ch. 30.85 and 3:1 replacement. No fine for ordinary pruning of your own trees.
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