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

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Bellingham'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 DBH. Heritage trees designated for exceptional size, species, or significance. Heritage / landmark designation: Heritage tree program recognizes individual trees of exceptional community value.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Permit applicants are typically the property owner or an authorized agent — confirm directly with Bellingham before filing.

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Your assessment report must include: Tree inventory with DBH, species, condition, retention plan, replacement plan; significant and heritage trees flagged separately under Bellingham Municipal Code 16.60 (Tree Preservation). Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Planning and Community Development. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.codepublishing.com/WA/Bellingham/.

    View the full Bellingham ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    On-site replacement preferred for significant-tree (6 inch DBH) and heritage-tree removal under Bellingham Municipal Code 16.60 (Tree Preservation); fee-in-lieu to the tree-preservation fund accepted when on-site replacement is infeasible.

Where to file

Planning and Community Development

(360) 778-8300

Other Washington permit walkthroughs

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Bellingham permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment