Tree protection and removal requirements vary based on the tree tier, zone, lot condition, and whether development is proposed. Removal of Tier 1, Tier 2, Tier 3, or Tier 4 trees is generally prohibited in all zones when no development is proposed either on developed property or undeveloped land. While tree removal is generally prohibited when no development is proposed, tree protection regulations have several exemptions and allowances for tree removal outside of development proposals. Most of these removals require SDCI review and approval prior to the tree work. See Tip 242B, Tree Removal on Private Property, for information on tree removal allowances and fees associated with SDCI review. Trees less than 6 inches DSH are not regulated by SMC 25.11. If you have questions, please contact us via email at sdci-trees@seattle.gov or through SDCI’s Submit a Request form.
If you need to remove a tree on your property, follow these steps to get approval from the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspection.
- Log into your Seattle Services Portal account or create one if necessary
- Click on Trees
- Click on Tree Removal and Voluntary Vegetation Restoration Approval Request
- Enter the address of the proposed work and click Search
- Select the correct address and then click Select
- Click Continue Application
- Add yourself as the applicant by clicking Select From Account
- Enter a Description of your project under Detail Information
- Answer the questions under Approval Information based on the request type
- Add your Tree Removal Information; click Add a Row, enter the required information, and then click Submit
- Click Continue Application
- To begin uploading your required documents, click Select
Required documents may include: site plan; an International Society of Arboriculture Basic Tree Risk Assessment; arborist report; photos of the tree, defects, and potential targets; Statement of Financial Responsibility form.
- Click Select again to find your files on your computer
- Select your file (you can select multiple files) and click Done
- Select the document Type from the list of Types in the drop-down for each document you uploaded
- Add a Description of the document
- Repeat steps 15 and 16 for each required document
- Click Save
- Click Continue Application
- Verify your information and then click Continue Application
- Pay your fees; click Checkout, confirm which fees you're paying and click Checkout again, enter your payment information and click Submit Payment