How much does a tree removal permit cost in Seattle?

Seattle tree removal permit fees vary based on the type of permit and project scope. Basic tree removal permits typically cost $60-$150 for residential properties. If your tree removal is part of a larger construction or development project, permit fees are incorporated into the overall building permit costs. Exceptional tree removal permits may have higher fees and require additional documentation. Fees are subject to change, so check the current Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections fee schedule for the most accurate pricing.

What is an exceptional tree in Seattle?

An exceptional tree in Seattle is defined as a tree that meets specific size thresholds based on species. For most tree species, a tree is considered exceptional if it measures 30 inches or more in diameter at standard height (4.5 feet above ground). Some species have different thresholds, such as 24 inches for certain native conifers or 6 inches for Pacific madrones. Exceptional trees receive the highest level of protection under Seattle's tree ordinance, and their removal is generally prohibited unless the tree poses an imminent hazard, is dead or dying, or meets other specific criteria for exception.

What are the penalties for removing a tree without a permit in Seattle?

Penalties for illegal tree removal in Seattle can be severe. Fines can range from $500 to over $100,000 depending on the tree's size, species, and whether it was an exceptional tree. For exceptional trees removed illegally, penalties are calculated based on the tree's appraised value and can include triple damages. Property owners may also be required to plant replacement trees, sometimes at a ratio of three or more trees for each tree removed illegally. Additional penalties may apply if the removal occurred in an environmentally critical area or violated other land use codes.

How long does it take to get a tree removal permit in Seattle?

The timeline for obtaining a tree removal permit in Seattle varies based on the complexity of your request. Simple residential tree removal permits with complete applications may be processed within 2-4 weeks. However, if your project involves exceptional trees, environmentally critical areas, or is part of a larger development, the review process can take 6-12 weeks or longer. Incomplete applications or those requiring additional documentation will experience delays. To expedite the process, ensure your application includes all required information, site plans, photos, and an arborist report if applicable.

Can I remove a hazardous tree without a permit in Seattle?

In true emergency situations where a tree poses an imminent threat to life or property, you may remove the hazardous tree without first obtaining a permit. However, you must document the hazard thoroughly with photos and a written assessment, and you must apply for an after-the-fact permit within 7 days of the emergency removal. An arborist report confirming the hazardous condition is typically required. If the tree was exceptional, additional documentation will be needed. Failure to obtain an after-the-fact permit or provide adequate documentation of the emergency can result in penalties similar to unpermitted removal.

Are there any trees I can remove without a permit in Seattle?

Yes, certain trees can be removed without a permit in Seattle. Trees less than 6 inches in diameter at standard height on single-family residential lots generally do not require permits. Fruit trees that were planted for food production rather than as ornamentals may be exempt in some cases. Trees that have been confirmed dead by a certified arborist may have expedited removal processes. However, these exemptions do not apply to exceptional trees, trees in environmentally critical areas, or trees on development sites. When in doubt, contact SDCI to verify whether your specific tree requires a permit before removal.

Do I need to replace trees I remove in Seattle?

Seattle's tree ordinance often requires tree replacement when significant trees are removed. On development sites, tree replacement is typically required at a 2:1 or 3:1 ratio depending on the size and type of tree removed. For exceptional trees removed under approved permits, replacement requirements are more stringent and may require planting multiple large-caliper trees. If replacement trees cannot be planted on-site due to space limitations, you may be required to pay into the City's tree replacement fund. Residential properties removing permitted trees may also have replacement requirements depending on the circumstances of removal.

Seattle Tree Removal Permits Explained: Homeowner Requirements & Application

January 15, 2026

TL;DR Seattle homeowners must obtain a permit from the Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections before removing most trees six inches or larger in diameter, with exceptional trees requiring additional approval and potential replanting obligations to maintain the city's protected urban canopy.

Key Takeaways

Permits are required for most tree removals in Seattle, particularly for trees six inches or larger in diameter at standard height, with exceptional trees facing stricter regulations.
Seattle's urban forest covers approximately 28 percent of the city, and the municipal code prioritizes canopy preservation through regulated removal processes.
Unauthorized tree removal carries significant penalties, including fines up to three times the tree's appraised value plus mandatory replacement plantings.
Certified arborists and licensed tree services can streamline the permit application process by providing required documentation, site assessments, and compliance guidance.
Emergency tree removal follows expedited procedures but still requires post-removal documentation and city notification to remain compliant.

Understanding Seattle's Tree Protection Regulations

Seattle takes urban forestry seriously. According to the Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections, the city's tree protection ordinance exists to maintain environmental quality, reduce stormwater runoff, improve air quality, and preserve neighborhood character. The city's goal of reaching 30 percent canopy coverage by 2037 means enforcement around tree removal continues to intensify.

The Seattle Municipal Code (SMC 25.11) establishes the framework governing when permits are required, which trees receive protection, and what penalties apply for violations. Understanding these regulations before picking up a chainsaw protects homeowners from costly mistakes.

Do I Need a Permit to Remove a Tree in Seattle?

Yes, in most situations. Seattle requires permits for removing trees six inches or larger in diameter at breast height (DBH), measured at 4.5 feet above ground. The permit requirement applies regardless of whether the tree sits on private property.

Tree Category	Permit Required?	Additional Requirements
Trees under 6" DBH	Generally no	None for most residential lots
Trees 6" DBH or larger	Yes	Standard permit application
Exceptional trees	Yes	Arborist report, director approval
Trees in Environmentally Critical Areas	Yes	Additional environmental review
Heritage trees	Yes	Strict protections, rarely approved

If you're uncertain whether your tree requires a permit, a professional tree assessment can clarify your obligations before you begin.

What Trees Are Protected Under Seattle City Code?

Seattle's tree ordinance designates certain categories of trees as protected, limiting or prohibiting their removal even on private property.

Exceptional trees receive the highest protection. A tree qualifies as exceptional based on size thresholds that vary by species. For example, a Douglas fir becomes exceptional at 30 inches DBH, while a Western red cedar reaches exceptional status at 30 inches DBH as well. Other species have different thresholds outlined in the Director's Rule.

Environmentally Critical Area (ECA) trees grow within designated sensitive zones including steep slopes, wetlands, riparian corridors, and wildlife habitat areas. These trees face strict preservation requirements regardless of size.

Grove trees belong to groups of eight or more trees at least six inches DBH with overlapping or touching crowns, creating continuous canopy that receives collective protection.

Heritage trees are designated by the city for their historical, cultural, or ecological significance. Removing a heritage tree requires extraordinary circumstances and multiple levels of approval.

Important: Private property ownership does not automatically grant the right to remove protected trees. Many Seattle homeowners discover this requirement only after planning a removal project.

How Do I Apply for a Tree Removal Permit?

The permit application process flows through the Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections (SDCI). Thousands of permit applications are reviewed annually, so preparing complete documentation speeds approval.

Steps to Apply for a Seattle Tree Removal Permit

Step 1: Determine permit requirements. Measure your tree's diameter at 4.5 feet above ground. Identify the species if possible. Check whether the tree sits within an Environmentally Critical Area using the city's GIS maps.

Step 2: Obtain an arborist report (when required). Exceptional trees, hazardous trees, and ECA trees typically require a certified arborist's written assessment documenting tree condition, removal justification, and recommended mitigation.

Step 3: Complete the application. Submit the Tree and Land Permit Application through SDCI's online portal or in person. Include a site plan showing tree location, property boundaries, and any structures.

Step 4: Pay applicable fees. Permit fees vary based on project scope and tree category. Budget for both application fees and any required replanting deposits.

Step 5: Await review and approval. Standard reviews take several weeks. Complex applications involving exceptional trees or environmental review require longer timelines.

Step 6: Schedule removal after approval. Only proceed with tree removal once you have written permit approval in hand.

Working with an experienced Seattle tree removal service familiar with SDCI requirements can reduce application errors and shorten approval timelines significantly.

Can I Remove a Tree on My Private Property in Seattle?

Private property ownership provides less autonomy than many homeowners expect when it comes to tree removal. Seattle's regulations apply to private property trees meeting size and category thresholds.

You may remove a tree without a permit only if it falls below six inches DBH on a standard residential lot outside Environmentally Critical Areas. Even then, replacement planting requirements may apply depending on lot coverage calculations.

For trees exceeding six inches DBH, the permit requirement applies regardless of property ownership. Exceptional trees require director approval regardless of the removal reason, including for trees interfering with construction projects.

Factors Affecting Private Property Tree Removal

Lot size and existing canopy coverage determine baseline tree retention requirements
Development projects trigger additional tree review during permit approval
Protected categories (exceptional, ECA, heritage) override private property rights
Homeowner association rules may add restrictions beyond city requirements

Understanding these layers of regulation before beginning a removal project prevents costly mid-project surprises. A consultation with tree removal professionals clarifies which requirements apply to your specific situation.

What Are the Penalties for Unauthorized Tree Removal?

Seattle enforces tree protection ordinances actively, and penalties for violations are substantial. The city treats unauthorized removal as a serious offense given its canopy coverage goals and environmental priorities.

Potential Penalties Include:

Fines up to three times the appraised value of removed trees using the Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers methodology
Mandatory replacement planting at ratios that may exceed one-to-one
Stop work orders on related construction or development projects
Permit revocation for other pending or approved projects
Civil penalties for repeat violations or willful non-compliance
Required restoration plans for Environmentally Critical Areas

Highlight: A single exceptional tree violation can result in penalties exceeding $15,000 when combining fines, replacement costs, and required mitigation. Proper permitting costs a fraction of potential violation penalties.

These penalties apply whether removal was intentional or resulted from negligence or confusion about requirements. Documentation of permit approval protects homeowners from enforcement actions.

What Qualifies a Tree as Hazardous in Seattle?

Hazardous tree designation provides a pathway for expedited removal when safety risks exist. However, homeowners cannot self-declare hazard status. Specific criteria must be documented, typically by a certified arborist.

A tree qualifies as hazardous when it presents imminent danger of failure that could injure people or damage property. Contributing factors include:

Structural defects such as significant decay, major cracks, root damage, or severe lean
Disease or pest infestation compromising structural integrity
Storm damage creating hanging limbs or destabilized root systems
Dead or dying condition with potential for unexpected failure
Root disruption from construction, grade changes, or soil compaction

Mere inconvenience, blocked views, leaf litter, or aesthetic preferences do not qualify trees as hazardous under Seattle's standards.

Hazardous Tree Documentation Requirements

A hazardous tree assessment requires a written report from an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) certified arborist documenting:

Specific defects or conditions creating hazard
Risk level and probability of failure
Target zone (what the tree could strike if it fails)
Recommended mitigation (removal, pruning, or monitoring)

This documentation supports expedited permit processing and provides liability protection for homeowners.

For trees showing concerning signs, professional tree inspection services can assess risk and prepare required documentation.

What Is the Process for Emergency Tree Removal?

Storm damage, sudden structural failure, and other emergencies sometimes require immediate action that cannot wait for standard permit processing. Seattle's code acknowledges this reality while still requiring compliance documentation.

Emergency Removal Procedures

Immediate threats to life or property allow removal before obtaining a standard permit. However, emergency status does not eliminate permit requirements entirely.

Within 7 days of emergency removal, property owners must:

Notify SDCI of the emergency removal
Submit documentation including photographs of the hazard condition
Provide an arborist's assessment if available
Complete a standard permit application retroactively

Supporting documentation strengthens emergency claims. Photograph the tree's condition before removal if safely possible. Retain any arborist reports. Document weather events or incidents triggering the emergency.

Utility conflicts may involve separate protocols. Trees threatening power lines require coordination with Seattle City Light. Do not attempt removal near electrical infrastructure without professional assistance.

For urgent tree situations, emergency tree services provide 24/7 response while managing compliance requirements.

How Can I Legally Remove a Tree on My Property in Seattle While Complying With All City Regulations?

Legal, compliant tree removal follows a structured process that protects homeowners from penalties while respecting Seattle's urban forestry goals.

Complete Compliance Pathway

1. Assessment phase: Identify tree species, measure diameter, and determine category (standard, exceptional, ECA, heritage). Check city maps for Environmental Critical Area designations affecting your property.

2. Professional evaluation: For protected categories or uncertain situations, obtain a certified arborist's assessment. This report serves as the foundation for permit applications.

3. Permit application: Submit required forms, site plans, and arborist reports through SDCI. Pay applicable fees and respond promptly to any requests for additional information.

4. Permit approval: Receive written confirmation before scheduling removal work. Verify any conditions or requirements attached to approval.

5. Licensed removal: Hire properly licensed, bonded, and insured tree removal contractors. Verify workers' compensation coverage and city business licensing.

6. Post-removal compliance: Complete any required replacement planting. Retain permit documentation for property records.

Experienced tree removal professionals can manage this entire process, reducing homeowner burden while ensuring full compliance.

How Much Does Compliant Tree Removal Typically Cost in Seattle and What Factors Affect the Price?

Tree removal costs in Seattle typically range from $500 to $2,500 for standard removals, with large, hazardous, or complex situations exceeding $3,000. Several factors influence final pricing.

Primary Cost Factors

Factor	Impact on Cost
Tree height	Taller trees require more equipment and labor
Trunk diameter	Larger diameter means more wood to process
Location	Proximity to structures, fences, power lines increases complexity
Access	Limited equipment access raises labor requirements
Condition	Hazardous trees require additional safety measures
Species	Hardwoods and dense species take longer to remove
Stump removal	Grinding or removal adds $150-$500+
Debris hauling	Disposal costs vary by volume

Permit-Related Costs

Beyond removal itself, budget for permit fees (typically $150-$500), arborist report fees ($200-$500 for detailed assessments), and any required replacement plantings ($200-$1,000+ per tree depending on size and species).

Cost Comparison Insight: Attempting unpermitted removal may seem cheaper initially, but violation penalties averaging $5,000-$15,000+ make compliant removal the more economical choice by far.

Request detailed estimates from licensed tree services that include permit assistance to understand total project costs before committing.

Who Can Inspect My Tree in Seattle?

Tree inspections serve different purposes and involve different qualified professionals depending on your needs.

Certified Arborists

ISA-certified arborists provide professional tree health assessments, hazard evaluations, and the written reports required for permit applications. Arborists evaluate structural integrity, disease presence, pest damage, and overall tree condition.

For permit applications, Seattle typically requires reports from ISA-certified or American Society of Consulting Arborists (ASCA) registered professionals.

City Inspectors

SDCI staff may inspect trees as part of permit review, particularly for exceptional trees or Environmentally Critical Area sites. City inspectors verify information in applications and arborist reports.

Utility Inspectors

Seattle City Light evaluates trees near power lines. They can order trimming or removal of trees threatening electrical infrastructure, following separate utility protocols.

Finding Qualified Inspection Services

Look for ISA certification, local licensing, insurance documentation, and specific experience with Seattle's permitting process. Professional tree care companies with arborist staff can provide assessments leading directly into permit applications and removal services.

How Do I Find a Certified Arborist in Seattle to Help With Tree Removal That Meets City Code Requirements?

Choosing the right arborist impacts both the quality of assessment and the smoothness of permit approval.

Verification Steps

Check ISA certification: The International Society of Arboriculture maintains a searchable database of certified professionals. Verify current certification status and any specialty credentials.

Confirm local experience: Seattle's specific codes and permit requirements differ from neighboring jurisdictions. Ask about experience navigating SDCI processes specifically.

Request references: Previous clients can speak to report quality, professionalism, and permit outcomes.

Verify insurance: Arborists conducting on-site assessments should carry liability coverage.

Review sample reports: Quality arborist reports include detailed observations, clear recommendations, and the specific language needed for permit applications.

What Professional Services Are Available for Compliant Tree Removal in the City of Seattle?

Full-service tree companies offer integrated solutions including arborist assessment, permit application assistance, removal execution, stump grinding, and debris disposal. This comprehensive approach simplifies the homeowner's experience compared to coordinating multiple separate providers.

Matt's Tree Service LLC provides complete tree removal services throughout Seattle with expertise in navigating city permitting requirements.

How Do I Remove a Hazardous Tree Near Power Lines in Seattle?

Trees near power lines present special challenges requiring coordination with Seattle City Light and specialized equipment or techniques.

Power Line Safety Protocols

Never attempt removal near power lines yourself. Electrocution risk exists even without direct contact—electricity can arc through branches and wet wood.

Contact Seattle City Light first for trees touching or within close proximity to power lines. The utility may trim or remove trees threatening infrastructure at no charge to property owners.

Hire line-clearance qualified contractors for trees near but not touching lines. These companies carry additional certifications and insurance for electrical hazard proximity work.

Standard permits still apply. Power line proximity may justify expedited processing but does not eliminate permit requirements for protected trees.

For hazardous trees near electrical infrastructure, emergency tree services with line-clearance qualifications provide safe, compliant removal.

Which Seattle Tree Removal Services Offer Help With City Paperwork and Replanting Requirements After Cutting Down a Tree?

Not all tree removal companies provide equal support with administrative requirements. When comparing services, ask specifically about permit assistance capabilities.

Full-Service Provider Capabilities

Pre-removal support:

Initial site assessment and tree evaluation
Arborist reports prepared in SDCI-accepted format
Permit application completion and submission
Communication with city reviewers as needed

Removal execution:

Licensed, insured crews with proper equipment
Compliance with permit conditions
Safe work practices near structures and utilities
Complete debris removal and site cleanup

Post-removal compliance:

Replacement tree selection meeting code requirements
Professional planting installation
Documentation for city verification
Ongoing care guidance for new plantings

Choosing a company offering this comprehensive approach, like Matt's Tree Service LLC, reduces homeowner stress and ensures nothing falls through the cracks.

How Can I Check if a Tree on My Seattle Property Is Protected?

Determining protection status before planning removal prevents costly surprises and permit denials.

Self-Assessment Steps

Measure trunk diameter at 4.5 feet above ground level (or above the root flare on sloped ground). Trees under six inches DBH typically fall outside permit requirements.

Identify the species if possible. Different species have different exceptional tree thresholds. Seattle's Director's Rule provides the complete threshold table.

Check ECA maps using Seattle's GIS system. Properties containing or adjacent to steep slopes, wetlands, streams, or wildlife corridors may include Environmentally Critical Areas affecting tree regulations.

Look for Heritage tree designation through city records. Heritage trees receive the highest protection level.

Review your lot coverage and tree inventory. Development standards may require minimum canopy coverage affecting removal options.

Professional Assessment Benefits

When protection status remains unclear or when exceptional tree thresholds might apply, professional assessment provides certainty. Certified arborists determine exact species identification, accurate diameter measurements, and health conditions affecting permit strategy.

Schedule a professional tree evaluation to understand your options before investing in permit applications.

What Is the Fastest Way to Get Approval and Hire a Professional for Tree Removal in the City of Seattle?

Streamlining the approval process requires complete documentation and experienced professional support.

Accelerating Permit Approval

Submit complete applications. Incomplete submissions trigger information requests that add weeks to review timelines. Include all required forms, site plans, and arborist reports initially.

Use qualified professionals. Reports from recognized certified arborists receive faster review than those from uncredentialed sources.

Respond promptly to requests. When SDCI requests additional information, same-day responses keep applications moving.

Consider pre-application consultation. For complex projects, SDCI offers pre-application conferences to identify issues before formal submission.

Document hazardous conditions thoroughly. Well-documented safety concerns may qualify for expedited review tracks.

One-Stop Professional Solutions

The fastest path from need to completed removal runs through full-service providers who handle assessment, permitting, and execution under one contract. This eliminates coordination delays between separate arborists, permit specialists, and removal crews.

Contact an experienced Seattle tree service to discuss your timeline and receive a compliant removal plan.

Conclusion

Seattle's tree removal permit requirements reflect the city's commitment to maintaining its urban forest canopy while balancing private property needs. Understanding when permits are required, which trees receive protection, and how to navigate the application process protects homeowners from significant penalties while ensuring responsible tree management.

The key takeaway: most tree removals in Seattle require permits, and working with experienced professionals who understand local regulations makes the process smoother, faster, and more affordable than attempting to navigate requirements independently.

Whether you're dealing with a hazardous tree requiring immediate attention or planning a removal as part of a larger property project, professional guidance ensures compliance while protecting your investment.

Ready to discuss your Seattle tree removal project? Contact Matt's Tree Service LLC for a compliant tree assessment and removal plan tailored to your property's specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Seattle? Yes, permits are required for trees six inches or larger in diameter at breast height in most Seattle locations.

What are the penalties for unauthorized tree removal? Fines can reach three times the tree's appraised value plus mandatory replacement planting requirements.

Who can inspect my tree in Seattle? ISA-certified arborists provide professional assessments, while SDCI inspectors review permit applications.

How do I apply for a tree removal permit? Submit applications through SDCI's portal with required site plans, fees, and arborist reports when applicable.

What trees are protected under Seattle city code? Exceptional trees, Environmentally Critical Area trees, grove trees, and heritage trees receive protection.

Can I remove a tree on my private property in Seattle? Only if compliant with city regulations; private ownership does not override permit requirements.

What is the process for emergency tree removal? Remove the immediate threat, then notify SDCI within seven days and submit retroactive documentation.

What qualifies a tree as hazardous in Seattle? Trees posing imminent failure risk due to structural defects, disease, or damage qualify as hazardous.

How can I legally remove a tree while complying with all city regulations? Obtain required permits, use licensed contractors, and complete any required replacement planting.

What are the steps and permits required for residential tree removal? Measure the tree, determine protection status, apply through SDCI, await approval, then hire licensed removal services.

Which licensed tree removal companies in Seattle specialize in permitted projects? Look for companies with ISA-certified arborists on staff and documented SDCI permit experience.

How do I find a certified arborist in Seattle for code-compliant removal? Search the ISA database and verify local permitting experience before hiring.

What is the fastest way to get approval for tree removal in Seattle? Submit complete applications with professional arborist reports through experienced full-service providers.

Who can help me handle the permit, inspection, and full removal process? Full-service tree companies offer end-to-end management from assessment through post-removal compliance.

How much does compliant tree removal typically cost in Seattle? Standard removals cost $500 to $2,500, with complex or exceptional tree removals exceeding $3,000.

What are my options for emergency tree removal that meets city rules? Contact emergency tree services for immediate response, then complete required post-removal documentation.

How do I remove a hazardous tree near power lines in Seattle? Contact Seattle City Light first, then hire line-clearance qualified contractors for safe removal.

Which Seattle tree removal services offer help with city paperwork and replanting? Full-service providers include permit application assistance and replacement planting as part of comprehensive removal packages.

How can I check if a tree on my Seattle property is protected? Measure diameter, identify species, check ECA maps, and consult a certified arborist for definitive status determination.

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