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

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

  1. 1

    Determine if your tree is regulated

    Trees at or above 6" DBH (diameter at breast height) are regulated. Significant tree: 6+ inches DSH for evergreens, 8+ inches DSH for deciduous. Landmark trees designated separately for exceptional size or significance. Heritage / landmark designation: Landmark trees designated for exceptional size, historical significance, or community value.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Bellevue: Property owner or authorized agent.

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Your assessment report must include: Tree inventory with DSH, species, condition, retention plan, replacement plan; significant trees flagged separately by 6 inch DSH evergreen / 8 inch DSH deciduous threshold under Bellevue Land Use Code 20.25H (Tree Retention). Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Development Services Department. Reference the full ordinance at https://bellevue.municipal.codes/LUC/20.25H.

    View the full Bellevue ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: Based on tree significance tier and site retention requirements. On-site replacement preferred to meet significant-tree retention threshold (6 inch DSH evergreen / 8 inch DSH deciduous) under Bellevue Land Use Code 20.25H; fee-in-lieu to tree fund accepted when on-site replacement is infeasible.

Where to file

Development Services Department

(425) 452-6800

trees@bellevuewa.gov

Other Washington permit walkthroughs

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

See Washington heritage criteria compared — how Bellevue's designation rules stack against the rest of the state.

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Bellevue permit?

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

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