Seattle Municipal Code 25.11, overhauled in 2023, classifies trees into four tiers. Tier-1 (Exceptional) trees 24+ inch DBH and Tier-2 trees 12–24 inch DBH are highly protected. Removal requires a SDCI tree permit, certified arborist report, public notice, and in-kind replacement or in-lieu fee under the new ordinance.
Seattle Municipal Code Title 25, Chapter 25.11 was substantially overhauled by Ordinance 126821 (effective 2023) and creates a four-tier classification. Tier-1 trees include Exceptional Trees (24+ inch DBH for most species) and any tree designated under the citywide Heritage Tree program; Tier-1 trees may only be removed for hazard or as part of approved development. Tier-2 covers trees 12–24 inch DBH that are protected outside of single-family lots. All removals on developed lots require a Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI) tree permit, a certified arborist report, two-week public notice for Tier-1 trees, and in-kind replacement or payment into the Tree Replacement and Restoration Fund (in-lieu fee around $2,833 per caliper inch under the 2024 fee schedule).
Removing a Tier-1 or Tier-2 tree without a permit triggers civil penalties up to $5,000 per tree per day plus the appraised value of the tree under SMC 25.11.090. Exceptional and Heritage Tree violations are doubled. Permit applicants who damage retained trees during construction forfeit their tree-protection bond and may face stop-work orders.
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