TMC 13.06.090 requires a permit to remove regulated trees on most private property, with mandatory replacement at ratios that scale with tree size and stricter rules in critical areas.
Tacoma's urban forestry rules in TMC 13.06.090 protect significant trees on developed and undeveloped private property. A permit from Planning and Development Services is required before removing any tree 6 inches or larger in diameter at breast height in most zones. Replacement trees are required at 1 to 1 for smaller trees and up to 3 to 1 for larger or heritage specimens. Removals in critical area buffers, shoreline jurisdiction, or street rights-of-way face additional review. Hazardous trees may be removed faster with arborist documentation, but stumps and replacement still trigger reporting.
Cutting a regulated tree without a permit carries fines up to 1,000 dollars per tree plus mandatory replanting under TMC 13.06.090.
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma allows residential lawn ornaments and yard art without permits provided they do not exceed the 15-foot accessory-structure height limit in TMC 13.06 a...
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma does not regulate residential inflatable holiday decorations by size or type. The Noise Code (TMC 8.122) applies to continuously running blower motors...
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma has no ordinance restricting when residents may put up or take down holiday lights. The general Noise Ordinance at TMC 8.122 applies to any amplified ...
Tacoma, WA
Built-in outdoor kitchens in Tacoma require building permits from Planning and Development Services (PDS) when they include new electrical, plumbing, gas pip...
Tacoma, WA
Backyard wood and pellet smokers in Tacoma single-family yards are permitted but subject to Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA) Regulation I, Section 9.11, ...
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma adopts the International Fire Code through TMC Title 3 (Fire Prevention) as Tacoma Fire Code. IFC Section 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devices...
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