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

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

Expected processing time: 4-8 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 for conifers, 8+ inches DBH for deciduous. Landmark trees designated separately for exceptional size or historical significance. Heritage / landmark designation: Landmark trees designated for exceptional size, species, age, or community value.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Issaquah: 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 Development Services Department. Typical processing time: 4-8 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.codepublishing.com/WA/Issaquah/.

    View the full Issaquah ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: Based on retention percentage (typically 30-35% for residential). On-site replacement required; fee-in-lieu when infeasible.

Where to file

Development Services Department

(425) 837-3100

Other Washington permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Issaquah permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment