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

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

  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. Heritage trees designated for exceptional size, species, or historical significance. Heritage / landmark designation: Heritage Tree Program recognizes individual trees for exceptional size, age, species, or historical association.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Permit applicants are typically the property owner or an authorized agent — confirm directly with Tacoma before filing.

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Your assessment report must include: Tree inventory with DBH, species, condition, retention plan, mitigation calculation; consistent with Tacoma Municipal Code 13.06.090 (Tree Preservation) and 1:1 on-site replacement standards. Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Planning and Development Services - Urban Forestry. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.cityoftacoma.org/cms/one.aspx?pageId=140437.

    View the full Tacoma ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: 1:1 on-site or mitigation payment. On-site 1:1 replacement preferred for significant-tree (6 inch DBH) removal under Tacoma Municipal Code 13.06.090 (Tree Preservation); mitigation payment to tree-preservation fund accepted when on-site replacement is infeasible.

Where to file

Planning and Development Services - Urban Forestry

(253) 591-5030

Other Washington permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Tacoma permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment