Washington Statewide Rule

Washington Forest Practices Act for Tree Removal

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Washington (2026)

Washington Forest Practices Act (RCW 76.09) regulates commercial timber harvest statewide; nonconversion harvests require state-issued permits.

Key Facts

Statute: Chapter 76.09 RCW
Regulator: Department of Natural Resources
Civil penalty cap: $10,000 per violation
Conversion moratorium: Six years

Source: Washington State Legislature

Full Breakdown

Under chapter 76.09 RCW, the Washington Department of Natural Resources regulates forest practices including timber harvest, road construction, and chemical application on forest land. Class II, III, and IV applications require Forest Practices Applications. Conversion harvests in urban growth areas trigger six-year moratoriums on development if not properly converted. Local tree-protection ordinances may apply to non-forest residential parcels, but state law preempts forest land regulation. Riparian buffers and Habitat Conservation Plan requirements apply statewide.

Violations & Penalties

Unauthorized harvest can incur civil penalties up to $10,000 per violation under RCW 76.09.170, plus restoration orders and six-year development moratoriums.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to remove trees in Washington?

Commercial timber harvest on forest land requires a Forest Practices Application from DNR. Residential tree removal is governed by local ordinances unless on forest land.

What is a conversion harvest moratorium?

If forest land is harvested without proper conversion approval, RCW 76.09.060 imposes a six-year moratorium on building permits to deter circumvention of zoning.

Sources

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Full Breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to remove trees in Washington?

Commercial timber harvest on forest land requires a Forest Practices Application from DNR. Residential tree removal is governed by local ordinances unless on forest land.

What is a conversion harvest moratorium?

If forest land is harvested without proper conversion approval, RCW 76.09.060 imposes a six-year moratorium on building permits to deter circumvention of zoning.