Do you need a permit to remove a tree in Seattle, WA?

Washington · Last checked November 2026

Key facts

Tier 1

Heritage trees.

Tier 2

24 inches in diameter or more at standard height.

How it works

Many cities require a permit to remove trees on private property once the trunk passes a set size, or for protected native species. The permit is often free or cheap, but replacement trees or per-inch fees can cost far more than the removal.

1. Measure the trunk at 4.5 feet above the ground. Some cities use diameter, others circumference.
2. Check whether the species or size is protected, and whether the tree is near the street.
3. Apply before any cutting. Dead or hazardous trees often still need sign-off.
4. Plan for replacement planting or in-lieu fees.

What it costs

Removal itself commonly runs several hundred to a few thousand dollars. City fees range from free to hundreds of dollars, and per-inch recompense or tree fund payments can add much more.

Other Seattle home rules

• Sidewalk repair in Seattle
• Sewer bill credits in Seattle

Compare other cities

• Danville Permit needed above a size
• Los Angeles Permit for protected species
• Morgan Hill Permit needed above a size
• Brian Head Permit needed above a size
• Austin Permit needed above a size
• Portland Permit needed above a size