Vancouver requires a minimum of 30 tree units per acre on development sites under VMC Chapter 20.770. Removed trees must be replaced with approved species; replacement plans are required. Unauthorized tree removal carries civil penalties up to $500 per tree.
VMC Chapter 20.770 (Tree, Vegetation, and Soil Conservation) requires new development and site disturbance to maintain a minimum of 30 tree units per acre; commercial, industrial, and multi-family projects must achieve 30 tree units per acre of disturbance. Replacement trees must be at least 2-inch caliper (deciduous) or 6 feet tall (conifer). A Tree, Vegetation, and Soil Plan must be submitted with development applications (VMC 20.770.050). Replacement trees must include at least 60% conifers and native species, and be watered for two growing seasons. Street trees must also be replaced per VMC 20.925.060. Penalties are set in Table 20.770.140-1.
Civil penalties per Table 20.770.140-1 (up to $500 per tree or more); development permits withheld until violations are cured and penalties paid.
Vancouver, WA
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See how Vancouver's tree replacement requirements rules stack up against other locations.
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