Yakima, WA Tree Protection: Tree Removal Permits (2026)

Under YMC Chapter 8.77 (Public Tree Ordinance), the City regulates trees on public property, public rights-of-way, and to a limited extent on private property. Removal of any street tree or park tree must go through the City — it is unlawful for any person or firm to engage in the business of pruning, treating, or removing street trees or park trees within the city without first obtaining all necessary Washington State licenses and a City of Yakima business license. The Yakima Tree Board, established by Ordinance 2016-032, administers the written tree management plan for City-owned trees and approves additions to / removals from the approved street tree species list. For private property, the City does not require a permit to remove a healthy tree, but it does retain the right to cause the removal of any dead or diseased tree on private property within the city when such tree constitutes a hazard to life and property, or harbors insects or disease which constitute a potential threat to other trees within the city. Concerns about trees can be reported to Public Works at 509-575-6005, or to the Yakima Tree Board through the Planning Division (Eric Crowell, Senior Planner, 509-576-6736).