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

Heavy Restrictions

Verified 3 weeks ago|Source: VMC § 20.770.120 – Heritage Trees →

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Key Facts

Permit authority: Urban Forestry Commission
Criminal penalty (max): $1,000 fine and/or 90 days jail
Violation frequency: Each day = separate violation
Arborist plan required: For any development on site
Heritage inventory updated: Annually

Summary

Vancouver's Heritage Tree program designates trees of exceptional size, beauty, rarity, or historical significance. Removal of any heritage tree requires Urban Forestry Commission approval. Unauthorized removal is a misdemeanor subject to up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine, and development permits are withheld until violations are cured.

Full Breakdown

VMC § 20.770.120 establishes the Heritage Tree program maintained by the Urban Forestry Commission. Trees are inventoried based on distinctive size, shape, species, beauty, ecological function, or documented historical association. Groves may also qualify. When development is proposed on a property with a heritage tree, a qualified arborist must prepare a tree preservation plan. Removal requires UF Commission approval; it is granted only if retention makes reasonable use impractical, removal is necessary with no alternatives, or the tree is hazardous or diseased. Penalties are codified at VMC § 20.770.140.

Violations & Fines

Unauthorized removal is a misdemeanor: up to 90 days in jail and/or $1,000 fine per VMC § 20.770.140. Each day of violation is a separate offense. Development permits and certificates of occupancy are withheld until the violation is remediated.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a tree get designated as a Heritage Tree?

Any person, neighborhood association, or city body may recommend a tree to the Urban Forestry Commission. Criteria include exceptional size, rarity, beauty, ecological importance, or documented historical significance.

Can a property owner remove a heritage tree on their private land?

Only with Urban Forestry Commission approval. Removal may be allowed if retention makes reasonable use of the property impractical, no alternatives exist, or the tree is hazardous or diseased and poses a public safety threat.

What happens if a heritage tree is removed without a permit?

Unauthorized removal is a misdemeanor (up to $1,000 fine and/or 90 days jail). Building permits, subdivision approvals, and certificates of occupancy are withheld until the violation is cured.

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

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