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

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Vancouver'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 trees of exceptional size, species, or community value.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

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

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Your assessment report must include: Tree inventory with DBH, species, condition, retention plan, replacement plan; heritage trees flagged separately under Vancouver Municipal Code Title 20 (Land Use and Development) heritage-tree review. Required certifications: ISA Certified Arborist.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Community and Economic Development - Urban Forestry. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.codepublishing.com/WA/Vancouver/.

    View the full Vancouver ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    On-site replacement preferred for significant-tree (6 inch DBH) removal under Vancouver Municipal Code Title 20 (Land Use and Development); heritage-tree removals require enhanced mitigation under the Title 20 heritage-tree review process.

Where to file

Community and Economic Development - Urban Forestry

(360) 487-7800

Other Washington permit walkthroughs

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Vancouver permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment