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

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Everett'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 required during development per landscaping code.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Everett: 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 Planning and Community Development. Typical processing time: 4-6 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.codepublishing.com/WA/Everett/.

    View the full Everett ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

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

Where to file

Planning and Community Development

(425) 257-8731

Other Washington permit walkthroughs

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Everett permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment