Seattle, WA Tree Protection: Protected Tree Species (2026)
Key Facts
- Code
- SMC 25.11 (2023)
- Tiers
- 4 categories
- Tier 3 threshold
- 12-inch DBH
- Replacement cost
- $2,833/inch DBH
- Authority
- SDCI
Summary
Seattle's overhauled Tree Protection Ordinance, SMC 25.11 (effective 2023), creates a tiered system. Tier 1 exceptional trees, Tier 2 heritage trees, and Tier 3 trees over 12-inch DBH need permits and replacement.
Because Seattle's goal is to protect and grow tree canopy cover (one important measure of the health of the urban forest and people who depend on it), Seattle's Tree Protection Code, Seattle Municipal Code (SMC) 25.11, limits the number, size, and type of trees that may be removed from private property. [...] Tree Protection on Private Property — Our tree protection requirements vary based on the size (tree tier), species, whether there is construction occurring or proposed on the lot, and the zoning of the property. Certain trees are protected and may not be removed unless specific requirements are met. If you unlawfully remove a tree, the penalties can be expensive. [...] All tree service providers doing the following type of commercial work defined in SMC 25.11.130 in Seattle in exchange for financial compensation must be registered with the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI): Reportable work includes: The removal of live branches 4 inches in diameter or greater; Pruning, or the removal of live roots 2 inches in diameter or greater; Removal of live branches constituting 25 percent or more of a tree's foliage-bearing area; [...] Removal of any Tier 1, Tier 2, Tier 3, or Tier 4 tree; Consulting Services: The assessment of the health or hazard risk of any Tier 1, Tier 2, Tier 3, or Tier 4 tree (trees 6 inches DSH or greater).
Full Breakdown
Council Bill 120207 overhauled SMC 25.11 in May 2023. The new code defines four tiers: Tier 1 exceptional trees by species, size, or rarity; Tier 2 designated Heritage Trees; Tier 3 significant trees 12 inches DBH and larger; Tier 4 trees 6-12 inches DBH on developed lots. Removal of any Tier 1-3 tree requires an SDCI permit and replacement or in-lieu Tree Fund payment. Tier 1 trees are essentially undisturbable outside hazard exception. Garry oak, Pacific madrone, and Pacific yew get automatic Tier 1 status at smaller sizes. Mature Western red cedar and Douglas-fir over 36 inches DBH are typically Tier 1. The 2023 update added a $2,833 per inch DBH replacement payment.
Violations & Fines
Unpermitted Tier 1-3 tree removal: $1,000 base fine plus $2,000 per inch DBH replacement. Tier 1 violation can exceed $50,000. SDCI may revoke development permits for tree-code violations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove a 14-inch tree from my yard without a permit?
What counts as an exceptional Tier 1 tree?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Seattle
Compare Seattle to another location·View the Washington tree protection overview
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Protected Tree Species in Nearby Cities
How other cities in King County handle protected tree species.