How to apply for a tree removal permit in Auburn, Washington

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Auburn's tree-protection ordinance. For the underlying DBH thresholds, protected-species list, and full fee schedule, see the city ordinance page.

Expected processing time: 4-6 weeks. Plan removal timing accordingly — emergency-tree provisions may differ.

  1. 1

    Determine if your tree is regulated

    Trees at or above 6" DBH (diameter at breast height) are regulated. Significant tree: 6+ inches DBH. Tree preservation and replacement requirements apply during development per zoning and landscape code.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Auburn: Property owner or authorized agent with arborist report.

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Your assessment report must include: Tree inventory with DBH, species, condition, retention plan, replacement plan. Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Community Development. Typical processing time: 4-6 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.codepublishing.com/WA/Auburn/.

    View the full Auburn ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: Based on retention percentage and site tree unit standard. On-site replacement preferred; fee-in-lieu to tree fund when infeasible.

Where to file

Community Development

(253) 931-3090

Other Washington permit walkthroughs

See Washington replacement obligations compared — how Auburn's replacement ratio ranks against the rest of the state.

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Auburn permit?

Capture an ISA TRAQ Level 1, 2, or 3 assessment in the field and export a municipality-ready PDF that fits Auburn's required report sections. Free, no account required.

Start a TRAQ assessment