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

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Kent'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 retention required during development. Landmark trees designated separately for exceptional significance. Heritage / landmark designation: Landmark trees designated for exceptional size, species, age, or historical significance.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

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

    View the full Kent ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

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

Where to file

Economic and Community Development

(253) 856-5454

Other Washington permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Kent permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment