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

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Seattle'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. Tier 1 (Exceptional): trees 24+ inches DSH or rare species. Tier 2: 12-23.9 inches DSH. Tier 3: 6-11.9 inches DSH. Tier 4: under 6 inches DSH. All trees 6+ inches DSH regulated during development on private property. Heritage / landmark designation: Heritage Trees designated by Seattle Heritage Tree Program for exceptional size, species, historical, or cultural significance.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Seattle: Property owner or authorized agent with ISA Certified Arborist report.

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Your assessment report must include: Tree inventory with DSH, species, condition, risk assessment, preservation plan, replacement plan. Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections (SDCI) - Urban Forestry. Permit fee: $250.00. Typical processing time: 4-8 weeks. Reference the full ordinance at https://library.municode.com/wa/seattle/codes/municipal_code?nodeId=TIT25ENPRHIPR_CH25.11TRPR.

    View the full Seattle ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: Tier-based replacement (2:1 to 3:1 depending on tree tier). On-site replacement required; payment to Tree Fund if infeasible.

Where to file

Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections (SDCI) - Urban Forestry

(206) 684-8600

treeinfo@seattle.gov

Other Washington permit walkthroughs

See Washington permit fees compared — Seattle's $250.00 fee in context.

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Seattle permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment