Clark County, WA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)
Key Facts
- Pruning rule
- CCC 40.260.080
- Maintenance duty
- CCC 40.320.010(G)(6)
- Standard
- No harm to retained trees
- Owner duty
- Ongoing pruning/trimming
- Sight distance
- Must not obstruct intersections
Summary
Clark County lets you prune and maintain trees, but landscaping required by the Unified Development Code must be kept healthy, and pruning must not impair the survival of trees required to be retained or planted. Vegetation must also be trimmed so it does not block utilities, access, or sight distance.
Vegetation shall be controlled by pruning, trimming or otherwise so that it will not interfere with the maintenance or repair of any public utility, restrict pedestrian or vehicular access, or obstruct sight distance at intersections as provided in Section 40.320.020.
Full Breakdown
Under CCC 40.260.080, routine landscape maintenance and pruning are permitted so long as they do not impair the health or survival of trees that must be retained or planted under the chapter. Separately, CCC 40.320.010(G)(6) makes ongoing pruning the property owner's duty for required landscaping. These rules apply to development-required trees in unincorporated Clark County; trimming your own ordinary yard trees generally needs no county permit.
Violations & Fines
Damaging or removing protected/retained trees without authorization is a UDC code violation subject to Code Enforcement notices, correction orders, and civil penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prune a tree the county required me to plant?
Do I need a permit to trim my backyard tree?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Clark County
Compare Clark County to another location·View the Washington landscaping rules overview
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