Puyallup, WA Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

05, Right-of-Way Administration, and governs right-of-way users, meaning utilities and other entities with facilities such as poles, conduit or overhead wires in the public right-of-way, rather than private property owners generally. Where state statute or regulation requires such a user to trim or remove a tree that interferes with its facilities, the section requires the trimming to protect the tree's appearance, integrity and health to the extent reasonably possible, rather than simply cutting for clearance. The right-of-way user must prepare and maintain a tree trimming schedule and submit it to the city engineer, both to keep the work planned rather than reactive and to avoid the exigent circumstances where a tree must be cut, trimmed or removed to protect public safety or service continuity without regard to its condition.

Except where those exigent circumstances make it impossible, the section requires the right-of-way user to give the property owner where the trees are located at least five days' advance written notice before trimming. 250, which lets the city engineer order correction, revoke a permit, or issue a citation for a right-of-way violation.