Do I Need a Permit to Remove or Prune a Tree?
Permit rules vary by city and can change over time. This page links you directly to the official city resources for the exact areas listed on our Service Areas page.
How to use this page: Click your city, skim the “tree removal / tree permits” info, and if you’re unsure, call the city permit counter. If you want, send us the address and a couple photos and we’ll tell you what typically applies.
City-by-city permit links (our service areas)
Cottage Lake (Unincorporated King County)
Unincorporated areas often route vegetation removal under clearing/grading or land-use rules depending on scope and location.
Seattle
Seattle tree work commonly ties into SDCI permitting. Requirements can vary based on tree type and site conditions.
Woodinville
Woodinville publishes tree protection/removal guidance and application resources.
Redmond
Redmond’s tree rules include permit requirements tied to tree protection standards.
Bellevue
Bellevue provides updated guidance on tree removal and tree code/retention topics.
Kirkland
Kirkland provides a guide and a permit guide tool to help determine what’s required.
Bothell
Bothell publishes a private property tree guide. Permitting commonly routes through MyBuildingPermit.
Sammamish
Sammamish tree removal permits are submitted online via MyBuildingPermit.
Duvall
Duvall publishes a clear tree removal page outlining when a permit may be required.
Snohomish (City)
Snohomish tree removal is addressed through the city’s tree program resources and municipal code.
Kenmore
Kenmore’s development services site explains tree permit requirements and typical steps.
Lynnwood
Lynnwood provides a tree portal and online permitting resources.
Lake Forest Park
Lake Forest Park has a dedicated “Tree Permits and Information” page and permit resources.
Mill Creek
Mill Creek publishes tree removal permit requirements directly.
Carnation
Carnation centralizes permit forms and where to submit them.
Monroe
Monroe provides a tree removal request form and related guidance.
Mountlake Terrace + Brier
Mountlake Terrace publishes tree resources and tree code updates.
Edmonds + Woodway
Edmonds publishes tree regulations and routes permit applications through MyBuildingPermit. Woodway publishes permit guidance/resources.
Everett
Everett requirements can vary depending on location and scope. These city FAQs are a good starting point.
Mukilteo
Mukilteo publishes a permit explainer and provides an online permit center.
Fast answers
Do you need a permit for emergency removals after storms?
Sometimes. Emergency work may be allowed to reduce immediate risk, but many cities still want documentation and/or follow-up reporting. If it’s unclear, use your city link above and call the permit counter.
Can you help with permits?
We can help you understand what the city typically requires and what documentation is usually needed. Final approval and requirements always come from the city.