Tree and Landscaping Regulations

Enforcement

DPD's Code Compliance unit is responsible for investigating potential violations of tree and landscaping regulations. This is also where someone would report a potential violation.

DPD inspectors respond to tree-related complaints in the following situations:

• when trees are required as part of an approved permit (Seattle Land Use Code, SMC Title 23)
• when trees on vacant lots and trees designated as Exceptional Trees are harmed or removed (SMC 25.11)
• when trees and vegetation in an environmentally critical area (e.g., a steep slope, wetland or shoreline) are harmed or removed (SMC 25.09.320)
• when trees threaten the right-of-way (SMC 10.52)

If you are planning to remove trees, please be aware of the following regulations:

• UNDEVELOPED LOTS AND EXCEPTIONAL TREES
  Any person, firm or corporation who removes a tree(s) on undeveloped lots, exceptional trees or trees identified to be preserved as part of a land use decision shall be subject at minimum to a civil penalty in the amount equal to the appraised value of the tree(s) affected in accordance with the Guide for Plant Appraisal, 9th Edition, or successor. (SMC 25.11.100.D.1) For projects subject to the provisions of SMC Chapter 25.11, trees must be identified on site plans for all permit applications. See CAM 103, Site Plan Requirements, for details.
• ENVIRONMENTALLY CRITICAL AREAS (ECAs)
  Removing, clearing or any action detrimental to habitat, vegetation or trees is prohibited within a critical area. Only non-native and hazardous trees can be removed within an ECA and only with the approval by DPD of a replanting plan. (SMC 25.09.320) Restoration of the site will be required, and a cumulative penalty of $500 per day may be imposed until the restoration is completed. For removing, clearing or taking any action detrimental to a tree over 6 inches in caliper, an additional penalty of $5,000 shall be assessed.
• STREET TREES
  Trees growing within street rights-of-way in the city of Seattle are regulated by the Seattle Department of Transportation. Permits are required for all removal, pruning and planting. For information, please visit SDOT's Urban Forestry website or call (206) 684-TREE (8733).