Permits & FAQ

Permitting for tree removals

Each county and city has unique rules. Some do not require a permit or may have a simple and free application, while others require a permit for significant tree removals or hazardous tree felling. We're happy to help! Please reach out to us for assistance, or you can follow the steps below.

Step 1 - Verify your jurisdiction - is your address within city limits or an unincorporated county area?

For King County click here and type your address on the upper left side. A small window will appear. Click on 'property report' and when a new screen opens, click the green tab that says 'property detail.'
For Snohomish County click here, click the search tab and choose to search by address. Your parcel ID will then appear on the side panel, which you can click to view the jurisdiction.
Double check with the city on your mailing address by doing a web search, either for "do I live in [your city] limits" or for " [your city] GIS map" to find their interactive and zoning maps. (Example: do I live in Bothell city limits?)

Step 2 - Find the guidelines for tree permits in your jurisdiction

Navigate to their official website. You can either:
- Click on their Departments list to find one with Planning, Permitting, or Land Use/Development in the title. (Example: Woodinville's Development Services page about tree protection and removal)
- Look for a menu that says "how do I...?" which will have an option for permit application. (Example: Everett's city website tab that says "I want to...")
Many jurisdictions have tree permit guidelines listed easily on the site or through a PDF. (Example: Lynnwood's tree guidelines PDF). If you don't see this or still have questions, reach out to their Planning Department or give us a call for help!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my HOA need to be involved with my tree removal?

This might depend on the location of the tree. For trees on your own property: you may want to ask the HOA if they require approval or notice for major tree work. This may only apply if it will significantly impact the aesthetics and property value in your neighborhood. For trees on communal property: if you notice a hazard, like a diseased or broken tree, the HOA is usually responsible for it. If a tree is on communal property and isn't a risk, but is a nuisance to you for a different reason, they'll have their own rules (and possibly a land development agreement) about what can be done if you pay for the work.

The timeline will be impacted by factors including the location and accessibility, the tree size and species, and if it is decaying or leaning. Each tree company is different as well. For B&B Trees LLC, a 20' tall tree in an open yard might take 3-5 hours, while an 80' tree near a house could take 3 days. If you choose to add stump grinding services, this may happen on a separate day. For multi-day jobs, we'll make sure your walking and driving paths are clear before the end of each day.

How long does it take to remove a tree?

Do I need a permit for tree trimming?

Usually no. Most jurisdictions don't require a permit for seasonal maintenance trimming or a modest crown raising, but they might need to issue a permit if you're trimming a large percentage of the tree at once, or if it's a "right-of way" tree. Tree pollarding may have different rules though, and tree topping is often prohibited.

Monroe
Granite Fall
Mountlake Terrace
Shoreline
Lynnwood
Brier
Edmonds

Tree Service Areas

Mukilteo
Marysville
Everett
Lake Stevens
Unincorporated Snohomish County
Unincorporated King County