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

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Lacey'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 per zoning code. Landmark trees designated separately for exceptional size or significance. Heritage / landmark designation: Landmark trees designated for exceptional size, species, age, or historical significance.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

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

    View the full Lacey 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

Community and Economic Development

(360) 491-5642

Other Washington permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Lacey permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment