Seattle requires permits for removal of most significant trees under SMC 25.11, with strict protections for trees over 6 inches in diameter and enhanced rules for exceptional trees (24 inches or larger) on both developed and undeveloped lots.
Seattle's Tree Protection Ordinance (SMC 25.11) regulates tree removal on private property. Trees are classified by tier based on diameter: Tier 1 (6 to 12 inches), Tier 2 (12 to 24 inches), and Tier 3/Exceptional (24 inches or greater). Removal of Tier 2 and Tier 3 trees generally requires a permit from SDCI, and Tier 3 exceptional trees have the highest level of protection with removal only permitted for specific reasons such as hazard, disease, or approved development. In residential zones, property owners may remove a limited number of trees per year without a development permit, but replacement trees are required. During development, tree retention is prioritized and a tree protection plan must be submitted with permit applications. Trees in the public right-of-way are managed by Seattle Department of Transportation and require separate authorization for removal. The Shoreline District has additional tree protections.
Illegal tree removal can result in fines up to $11,500 per tree for Tier 2 trees and up to $23,000 per tree for exceptional trees. Additional penalties include required replacement planting at prescribed ratios and potential stop-work orders on associated development projects.
Seattle, WA
Seattle's Land Use Code allows residential lawn ornaments, statuary, and yard art without permits provided structures do not exceed accessory-structure heigh...
Seattle, WA
Seattle does not regulate residential inflatable holiday decorations by size or type. Standard Noise Ordinance (SMC 25.08) limits apply to blower-motor noise...
Seattle, WA
Seattle has no ordinance restricting when residents may put up or take down holiday lights. The general Noise Ordinance SMC 25.08 applies to any amplified ou...
Seattle, WA
Built-in outdoor kitchens in Seattle require building permits from SDCI when they include new electrical, plumbing, gas piping, or a structural roof under Se...
Seattle, WA
Backyard wood and pellet smokers in Seattle are allowed at single-family homes but are subject to Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA) Regulation I, Section ...
Seattle, WA
Seattle Fire Code Section 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devices and LP-gas containers larger than 1 lb on combustible balconies of multi-family buildi...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in King County.
See how other cities in King County handle tree removal permits.
See how Seattle's tree removal permits rules stack up against other locations.
Quick Compare
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.