Port Townsend, WA Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)

The landmark tree preservation designation recognizes the significance of certain special trees to the citizens of Port Townsend. A tree on private or public property may be protected throughout its useful life because of its contribution to the environment and city character.

B. Property Owner Consent. To be nominated as a landmark tree, consent of the tree’s property owner, or owners, is required. Forms for nominating a tree as a landmark tree will be maintained by public works.

C. Nominations for landmark tree designation shall be reviewed by the city’s tree committee. To qualify as a landmark tree, one or more of the following criteria must be met:

1. The tree has significance associated with a historical person, place or event;

2. The tree has attained significant size in height, caliper, or canopy spread for its age and species;

3. The tree has unique or uncommon aesthetic qualities for its species;

4. The tree is prominently visible to the public, along a major road or near a public place;

5. The tree possesses rare horticulture value.

D. In addition to the above criteria, to qualify as a landmark tree the tree must not constitute a hazard or obstruction.

E. The tree committee shall consider all nominations for landmark tree designation at an open public meeting.

F. Designation of Landmark Trees.