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

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Sammamish'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 evergreen species, 8+ inches DBH for deciduous species. Landmark trees designated separately for exceptional size or significance. Retention requirements vary by zone and lot size. Heritage / landmark designation: Landmark trees designated for exceptional size, species, age, or community value.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

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

    View the full Sammamish ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: Based on retention percentage (typically 30-35% for residential, varies by zone). On-site replacement required; fee-in-lieu paid to tree fund when infeasible.

Where to file

Community Development

(425) 295-0500

Other Washington permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Sammamish permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment