Who
is affected by the tree protection regulations?
The tree regulations apply to all property within the City of Redmond.
What do you as a property owner need to know?
If you intend to cut down any significant, hazardous, protected, or
landmark trees on your property, you need to obtain a tree removal
permit from the City.
What is a "significant" tree?
Any healthy tree 6 inches or greater in diameter (measured 4 ½ feet
above ground). If you remove one of these trees, you must also replace
it with a new tree.
When is a tree considered hazardous?
A tree that is dead, or is so affected by a significant structural
defect or disease that falling or failure appears imminent, or that
otherwise currently poses a threat to life or property.
Removal of a hazardous tree will still require a permit before
cutting it down. There may be specific requirements or restrictions that
apply, such as photos, an arborist's report or a consultation/site visit
by City staff.
When is a tree considered "protected"?
Trees that were preserved in an original subdivision, located in a
native growth protection area (e.g., greenbelt), or sensitive area
buffer (e.g., wetland) are usually considered "protected." A
protected tree may be identified as an individual, isolated tree or as
part of a cluster. A representative from the Redmond Planning Department
can help clarify this. A protected tree generally may not be removed
unless it is proven hazardous.
How do you know if you have a "landmark" tree?
Any tree that is greater than 30 inches in diameter (measured 4 1/2 feet
above ground) is a landmark tree. A landmark tree generally may not be
removed unless it is proven hazardous.
What about routine pruning and maintenance of a tree?
As long as the tree is not located in a native growth protection area or
sensitive area, no permit is required.
What does a tree removal permit cost?
For a single-family residence, there is no fee. Additional fees and
permits apply when more than 10 trees are being removed.
Why did Redmond adopt such an ordinance?
Trees are important to the community both for their aesthetic value and
for their ecological benefits, which become increasingly important in a
city experiencing rapid urban growth. Trees provide rich habitats for
wildlife, stabilize and enrich the soil, slow stormwater runoff reducing
soil erosion, improve air and water quality, and moderate the effect of
winds and temperatures. More mature trees will be saved during new
development and trees that are removed will be replaced, helping to
maintain a desirable balance between trees and growth.
Who may I contact if I suspect illegal tree-cutting in my
neighborhood?
You may contact the Code Enforcement Officer at 425-556-2465 or 425-556-2412. On weekends, you may contact the Redmond Police Department at
425-556-2500.
If you have specific questions about tree cutting, you are encouraged
to call the Redmond Planning Department at 425-556-2494 or e-mail
planneroncall@redmond.gov.
You may obtain a copy of the full ordinance from the City's Permit
Center or check Section 20D.80 of the Redmond Community Development
Guide.
