City of Seattle Tree Removal Permit: Costs, Rules, and How to Stay Compliant (2026)

TLDR: If you want to remove a tree six inches or larger in diameter on your Seattle property, you must obtain a tree removal permit from the Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections (SDCI), with fees ranging from $0 to $2,800 depending on circumstances, and failure to comply can result in fines up to $32,500 per tree.

Key Takeaways

1. Permit requirements apply to most significant trees: Any tree measuring six inches or more in diameter at standard height (4.5 feet above ground) requires a permit before removal on Seattle residential properties.
   
   
2. Costs vary significantly based on tree classification: Permit fees range from free for hazardous trees to $2,800 for exceptional trees, with additional costs for professional arborist assessments and actual removal services.
   
   
3. Environmentally critical areas have stricter rules: Properties located in steep slopes, wetlands, riparian corridors, or other ECAs face heightened scrutiny and may require additional environmental review.
   
   
4. Professional assistance streamlines the process: Licensed landscaping and tree service companies can handle permit applications, arborist reports, and compliant removal, saving homeowners considerable time and potential legal exposure.
   
   

Seattle actively protects its urban canopy: The city's regulations aim to maintain approximately 28 percent tree canopy coverage, and enforcement actions have increased substantially in recent years.

Understanding Seattle's Tree Protection Regulations

Seattle takes urban forestry seriously. According to the Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections, the city's tree canopy currently covers roughly 28 percent of total land area, a figure that environmental scientists and urban planners consider essential for air quality, stormwater management, and climate resilience.

The U.S. Forest Service reports that urban trees provide approximately $18.3 billion in annual benefits to American cities through air pollution removal, carbon sequestration, and energy savings. Seattle's commitment to protecting this resource translates directly into the regulatory framework homeowners must navigate when considering tree removal.

Industry Insight: According to the National Association of Landscape Professionals, the landscaping and tree care industry generates approximately $176 billion annually in the United States, with residential tree services representing one of the fastest-growing segments.

How Do I Apply for a City of Seattle Tree Removal Permit for My Property?

Applying for a tree removal permit in Seattle requires methodical preparation and attention to regulatory details. The process involves several distinct steps, each with specific requirements that can delay approval if not handled correctly.

Step 1: Determine If Your Tree Requires a Permit

Not every tree requires a permit for removal. Seattle regulations establish clear thresholds:

Step 2: Gather Required Documentation

Before submitting your application, compile the following materials:

A completed Tree Removal Application Form available through the Seattle Services Portal or SDCI offices.

A site plan showing your property boundaries, the location of all significant trees, structures, and the specific tree or trees you wish to remove.

Photographs documenting the tree's condition, particularly if you're claiming hazardous status or disease.

An arborist report from a qualified professional if you're removing an exceptional tree or claiming the tree poses a safety hazard.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Applications are submitted through the Seattle Services Portal online or in person at SDCI's downtown office. Processing times vary based on application complexity.

Highlight: The average permit processing time for straightforward residential tree removal is 4 to 8 weeks. Exceptional tree removals or properties in environmentally critical areas may require 8 to 12 weeks or longer.

Step 4: Await Review and Respond to Requests

SDCI staff will review your application and may request additional information. Common requests include more detailed arborist assessments, revised site plans, or documentation supporting your stated reason for removal.

Step 5: Receive Your Permit and Schedule Removal

Once approved, you'll receive your permit with specific conditions. These often include replacement tree requirements, protection measures for adjacent trees, and time limitations for completing the work.

Need help navigating this process? Matt's Tree Service assists Seattle homeowners with the complete permit application process, from initial assessment through final removal.

What Is the Cost Involved in Getting a City of Seattle Tree Removal Permit and Removal Service?

Understanding the full cost picture requires separating permit fees from actual removal services, as both represent significant but distinct expenses.

Permit Fee Structure (2026)

Seattle's permit fees reflect the city's commitment to canopy preservation, with higher fees for removing larger or more valuable trees:

Additional Professional Service Costs

Beyond permit fees, homeowners should budget for these associated expenses:

Arborist Assessment Reports: A certified arborist's assessment typically costs between $150 and $450, depending on the complexity of the evaluation and the number of trees involved.

Survey Work: If your property lacks a recent survey or your site plan is unclear, professional surveying can add $300 to $800.

Actual Tree Removal: The physical removal of the tree represents your largest expense. According to industry data from the Tree Care Industry Association, residential tree removal in the Pacific Northwest averages:

Total Cost Examples

Scenario A: Removing a 10-inch diameter maple in good health with straightforward access.

• Permit fee: $172
• Arborist report: Not required
• Removal service: $700
• Total: Approximately $872
  
  

Scenario B: Removing a 36-inch exceptional conifer near a structure.

• Permit fee: $2,800
• Arborist report: $350
• Removal service: $3,200
• Replacement tree purchase: $400
• Total: Approximately $6,750
  
  

Cost-Saving Tip: Many professional tree service companies include permit assistance as part of their removal service package, potentially reducing your total out-of-pocket expenses and eliminating coordination headaches.

For a detailed quote on your specific situation,contact Matt's Tree Service for a free on-site assessment.

Which Services Assist with the Application Process for a City of Seattle Tree Removal Permit?

Navigating Seattle's tree removal regulations doesn't have to be a solo endeavor. Several types of professionals can assist at various stages of the process.

Certified Arborists

International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) certified arborists provide the technical assessments that support permit applications. These professionals evaluate tree health, structural integrity, and potential hazards. Their reports carry significant weight with SDCI reviewers, particularly when removal justification involves safety concerns or disease.

According to the ISA, there are approximately 3,400 certified arborists currently practicing in Washington State, though not all specialize in permit-related work.

Full-Service Tree Companies

The most efficient approach for most homeowners involves engaging a full-service tree company that handles both permitting and removal. These companies typically offer:

• Initial property assessment and tree inventory
• Permit application preparation and submission
• Communication with SDCI throughout the review process
• Compliant tree removal following permit approval
• Replacement tree planting when required
• Documentation for your records
  
  

Environmental Consultants

Properties in environmentally critical areas may require environmental assessments beyond standard arborist reports. Environmental consultants specialize in evaluating impacts on wetlands, steep slopes, wildlife corridors, and other sensitive features.

Permit Expediting Services

For complex projects or time-sensitive situations, permit expediting services can accelerate the review process through proper channels. These services understand SDCI's workflows and can identify potential issues before they cause delays.

Professional Recommendation: When selecting a tree service provider, verify they hold both a Washington State contractor's license and appropriate liability insurance. Ask specifically about their experience with Seattle's permit requirements and request references from similar projects.

Matt's Tree Service provides comprehensive permit assistance throughout Seattle, Sammamish, and Issaquah, handling every step from initial consultation through project completion.

Can a Landscaping Company Help Secure a City of Seattle Tree Removal Permit?

Absolutely. Experienced landscaping and tree service companies routinely assist clients with permit acquisition, and this assistance often represents significant value beyond simple convenience.

Advantages of Professional Permit Assistance

Regulatory Expertise: Licensed tree service professionals work within Seattle's regulatory framework daily. They understand which removal justifications SDCI accepts, how to document hazardous conditions effectively, and what supplementary information typically accelerates approvals.

Relationship with Reviewers: Established companies maintain professional relationships with SDCI staff. While this doesn't provide special treatment, it does mean communications are handled professionally and responses to information requests are prompt and complete.

Accurate Documentation: Permit denials and delays often result from incomplete or unclear applications. Professional assistance ensures your submission includes all required elements in the format SDCI expects.

Realistic Timeline Management

: Experienced professionals provide accurate timeline estimates, helping you plan related projects like construction, landscaping, or property sales around permit processing.

What Professional Assistance Typically Includes

Service Component	What's Provided
Site Assessment	Professional evaluation of tree condition, size, and removal complexity
Documentation	Photographs, measurements, and site plans meeting SDCI requirements
Application Preparation	Completed forms with appropriate removal justification
Submission and Tracking	Application filing and status monitoring
Response Management	Handling information requests and reviewer questions
Permit Compliance	Ensuring removal meets all permit conditions

Selecting the Right Partner

When evaluating landscaping or tree service companies for permit assistance, consider these factors:

1. Seattle-specific experience: Regulations vary significantly between jurisdictions. Confirm the company regularly handles Seattle permits, not just regional work.
   
   
2. Professional credentials: Look for ISA certification, Washington State contractor licensing, and adequate liability insurance.
   
   
3. Client references: Request contacts from previous clients who navigated similar permit situations.
   
   
4. Clear pricing: Understand whether permit assistance is included in removal pricing or billed separately.
   
   
5. Communication practices: Your chosen provider should keep you informed throughout the process without requiring constant follow-up.
   
   

Whether you need routine tree removal or are dealing with a complex exceptional tree situation,Matt's Tree Service brings decades of Seattle-specific experience to every project.

What Documents Are Required for Obtaining a City of Seattle Tree Removal Permit?

Successful permit applications depend on thorough documentation. Missing or inadequate materials represent the most common cause of delays and denials.

Core Required Documents

Tree Removal Application Form The official SDCI application form requires property owner information, tree location details, species identification if known, diameter measurements, and stated reason for removal. Accurate completion is essential since errors can delay processing.

Site Plan Your site plan must show:

• Property boundaries with accurate dimensions
• Location of all trees six inches or larger in diameter
• Identification of the specific tree or trees proposed for removal
• Structures, driveways, and other significant features
• North arrow and scale
  
  

Professional site plans prepared by licensed surveyors or landscape architects strengthen applications, though hand-drawn plans meeting these requirements may be accepted for straightforward residential projects.

Photographs Document the tree's condition with clear photographs showing:

• Full tree from multiple angles
• Trunk base and root flare area
• Canopy condition
• Any visible damage, disease, or structural issues
• Proximity to structures or other features relevant to removal justification
  
  

Conditional Required Documents

Arborist Report Required for exceptional tree removal and strongly recommended for any removal claiming hazardous conditions. The report must come from an ISA-certified arborist and address:

• Tree species and age estimate
• Overall health assessment
• Structural evaluation
• Risk assessment if claiming hazardous status
• Recommendations regarding removal necessity
  
  

Environmental Review Materials Properties in environmentally critical areas require additional documentation:

• Critical areas study
• Mitigation plan
• Habitat assessment if applicable
• Stormwater impact analysis

Replacement Tree Plan When replacement trees are required as a permit condition, provide:

• Species selection with suitability justification
• Proposed planting locations
• Maintenance commitment timeline

Document Checklist Highlight

Before submitting your application, verify you have:

• [ ] Completed application form with accurate measurements
• [ ] Legible site plan with all required elements
• [ ] Clear photographs documenting tree condition
• [ ] Arborist report (if required or beneficial)
• [ ] Proof of property ownership or authorization
• [ ] Payment for applicable fees

For assistance preparing your documentation package,contact Matt's Tree Service for a consultation.

Understanding Seattle's Tree Categories and Protection Levels

Seattle's regulations establish distinct protection levels based on tree characteristics. Understanding these categories helps homeowners anticipate permit complexity and cost.

Significant Trees

Any tree measuring six inches or more in diameter at standard height (4.5 feet above ground) qualifies as a significant tree under Seattle code. These trees require permits for removal on most residential properties.

Exceptional Trees

Exceptional trees receive the highest protection level. A tree qualifies as exceptional if it meets species-specific diameter thresholds established by SDCI, typically ranging from 24 to 30 inches depending on species. These thresholds recognize the irreplaceable ecological and aesthetic value of mature specimens.

Exceptional tree removal requires documented justification meeting specific criteria and SDCI director approval. Replacement requirements are more stringent, and penalties for unauthorized removal are substantially higher.

Trees in Environmentally Critical Areas

Environmentally critical areas (ECAs) include:

• Steep slopes (40% grade or greater)
• Wetlands and wetland buffers
• Riparian corridors along streams and shorelines
• Wildlife habitat areas
• Geologically hazardous areas
  
  

Trees in ECAs face additional scrutiny because they often provide essential erosion control, habitat, and water quality functions. Removal applications require environmental review demonstrating that impacts are minimized and mitigated.

Street Trees

Trees located between sidewalks and streets fall under Seattle Department of Transportation jurisdiction rather than SDCI. Different permit processes and fees apply, and homeowners generally cannot remove street trees without specific approval from SDOT's Urban Forestry division.

How Zoning Affects Tree Removal Rules in Seattle

Your property's zoning classification directly impacts tree removal regulations. Seattle's approach varies between residential, commercial, and industrial zones.

Single-Family Residential Zones

Most Seattle homeowners fall within single-family zones where the standard permit framework applies. You may remove up to three significant trees per year through the standard permit process, with exceptional trees requiring individual review regardless of this limit.

Multifamily Residential Zones

Multifamily properties face stricter requirements, with removal typically requiring demonstration that the tree prevents reasonable development or poses documented safety risks. Replacement ratios are often higher than single-family requirements.

Commercial and Industrial Zones

Development permits in commercial zones incorporate tree requirements into the broader project review. Tree removal is evaluated as part of overall site development rather than through standalone permits.

Shoreline Zones

Properties within shoreline jurisdiction face overlapping regulations from both SDCI and the Shoreline Management Act. Buffer requirements often restrict removal regardless of tree condition.

Zoning Verification: Confirm your property's zoning classification before beginning the permit process. SDCI's online mapping tools provide this information, or a professional tree service can determine applicable regulations during your initial consultation.

Emergency Tree Removal: What to Do When a Tree Becomes Hazardous

Severe weather events and sudden tree failures don't wait for permits. Seattle's regulations accommodate genuine emergencies while preventing misuse of emergency provisions.

Imminent Hazard Situations

When a tree poses immediate danger to persons or property, you may take necessary action to eliminate the hazard. However, this doesn't mean permits are unnecessary. Rather, emergency removal triggers an expedited permit process.

Qualifying emergencies include:

• Trees actively failing or partially fallen
• Trees with visible structural damage following storms
• Trees impacting utility lines or blocking emergency access
• Root plate lifting indicating imminent failure
  
  

Emergency Process Steps

1. Document the emergency: Before any work begins, photograph the hazardous condition from multiple angles with timestamps.
   
   
2. Contact utilities if applicable: If power lines are involved, contact Seattle City Light before any tree work.
   
   
3. Perform only necessary work: Emergency authorization covers only the immediate hazard. Remaining portions of the tree may require standard permits for complete removal.
   
   
4. File emergency permit within 7 days: Submit your permit application with emergency documentation within one week of the initial work.
   
   
5. Provide arborist verification: An ISA-certified arborist must verify that emergency conditions existed, typically through a post-incident report.
   
   

Emergency Contact Information

For after-hours tree emergencies affecting public safety, contact Seattle's emergency services. For private property emergencies,Matt's Tree Service Emergency Response provides 24/7 availability for urgent situations throughout the Seattle area.

Penalties for Illegal Tree Removal in Seattle

Seattle actively enforces its tree protection regulations, and penalties have increased substantially in recent years. Understanding potential consequences emphasizes the importance of proper permitting.

Fine Structure

Tree Type	Exceptional Diameter Threshold
Most conifers	30 inches
Most deciduous	24 inches
Heritage varieties	Case-by-case determination
Trees in groves	Reduced thresholds may apply

Additional Consequences

Beyond monetary penalties, violators may face:

• Replacement requirements: Replanting at ratios up to 3:1 for exceptional trees
• Development restrictions: Properties with violation history face increased scrutiny for future permits
• Liens: Unpaid penalties can result in property liens
• Civil liability: Neighboring property owners may pursue additional damages through civil action
  
  

Enforcement Trends

SDCI has increased enforcement resources in response to documented violations. According to city records, enforcement actions have risen approximately 40 percent over the past five years, with particular attention to exceptional trees and ECA violations.

Compliance is Cost-Effective: Even complex exceptional tree permits with full professional assistance cost substantially less than minimum violation penalties. Proper permitting protects both your property and your finances.

Tree Trimming vs. Tree Removal: Understanding the Distinction

Homeowners sometimes confuse trimming and removal requirements. Understanding the difference prevents unintentional violations.

Trimming Without Permits

Routine pruning and trimming generally don't require permits when performed according to professional standards. Acceptable unpermitted work includes:

• Removal of dead, dying, or diseased branches
• Crown cleaning and thinning following ISA guidelines
• Clearance pruning for structures and utilities
• Hazard reduction that doesn't significantly alter tree structure
  
  

When Trimming Becomes Removal

Trimming crosses into removal territory when it:

• Removes more than 25 percent of the tree's crown in a single year
• Tops the tree or removes the central leader
• Damages the tree to the point where survival is unlikely
• Constitutes topping or lion-tailing (improper practices)
  
  

Such aggressive trimming may be treated as unpermitted removal, triggering the same penalties.

For professional trimming services that maintain tree health while respecting Seattle's regulations,Matt's Tree Service provides ISA-certified arborist oversight on every project.

Appealing a Denied Tree Removal Permit

Permit denials aren't necessarily final. Seattle provides an appeal process for homeowners who believe their applications were wrongly denied.

Grounds for Appeal

Valid appeal grounds include:

• Factual errors in SDCI's review
• Failure to consider submitted evidence
• Misapplication of regulations
• New information relevant to the decision
  
  

Appeal Timeline

Appeals must be filed within 14 days of permit denial. Missing this deadline typically forfeits appeal rights.

Appeal Process

1. File written appeal with the SDCI Director
2. Provide specific grounds and supporting documentation
3. Attend informal conference if offered
4. If informal resolution fails, request hearing before the Hearing Examiner
5. Hearing Examiner decision is binding unless appealed to Superior Court
   
   

Improving Appeal Success

Working with experienced professionals increases appeal success. Certified arborists can provide additional technical documentation, while tree service companies familiar with SDCI's review criteria can help identify where initial applications fell short.

Planning Your Tree Removal Project: Timeline Expectations

Realistic timeline planning prevents frustration and enables coordination with other property improvements.

Typical Project Phases

Factors Affecting Timeline

Several variables can extend your project timeline:

Application completeness: Incomplete applications are returned rather than processed, adding weeks to your timeline.

Seasonal demand: Spring and fall see higher permit volumes, potentially extending review times.

ECA involvement: Environmental review adds substantial time and may require seasonal timing for certain assessments.

Appeal involvement: If initial denial leads to appeal, add 2-6 months to your timeline.

Conclusion

Navigating Seattle's tree removal permit process requires understanding the regulatory framework, preparing thorough documentation, and often engaging professional assistance. The city's commitment to protecting its 28 percent urban canopy means homeowners must take permit requirements seriously, as enforcement is active and penalties are substantial.

Whether you're dealing with a hazardous tree requiring emergency response, an exceptional specimen requiring director approval, or a routine significant tree that's simply outgrown its space, proper permitting protects both your property investment and Seattle's urban forest.

For homeowners seeking professional guidance through every step of the process, from initial assessment through final removal and replacement planting,Matt's Tree Service provides comprehensive tree care services throughout Seattle, Sammamish, and Issaquah.Contact us today for a free consultation and project estimate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Seattle?
Yes, any tree six inches or larger in diameter at 4.5 feet above ground requires a permit for removal on residential property in Seattle.

What trees are protected by Seattle law?
All significant trees (six inches or larger), exceptional trees (meeting species-specific size thresholds), and trees in environmentally critical areas receive legal protection under Seattle Municipal Code.

How do I apply for a tree removal permit in Seattle?
Submit a Tree Removal Application through the Seattle Services Portal or at SDCI offices, including required site plans, photographs, and any necessary arborist reports.

Can I remove a hazardous tree without a permit?
Emergency removal is allowed for immediate hazards, but you must file an emergency permit application with documentation within seven days.

What are the fines for illegal tree removal in Seattle?
Fines range from $4,375 to $11,000 per significant tree and $17,875 to $32,500 per exceptional tree removed without proper permits.

Who can assess if a tree is dangerous or diseased?
An ISA-certified arborist can provide the professional assessment required to document hazardous conditions for permit applications.

What is the minimum tree diameter for permit requirement?
Six inches in diameter measured at standard height (4.5 feet above ground) triggers permit requirements for tree removal.

How does zoning affect tree removal rules?
Single-family zones allow up to three significant tree removals annually through standard permits, while multifamily and commercial zones face stricter requirements tied to development review.

Can I appeal a denied tree removal permit in Seattle?
Yes, appeals must be filed within 14 days of denial and can proceed through informal conference and formal hearing examiner review if necessary.

How long does the permit process take?
Standard permits typically require 4 to 8 weeks for review, while exceptional trees or properties in environmentally critical areas may require 8 to 12 weeks or longer.