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1. What is a significant tree?

A significant tree is a tree with a diameter-at-breast-height of six (6) inches or more.

2. How do I measure the diameter-at-breast-height (DBH) for a tree?

The diameter-at-breast-height (DBH) of a tree’s trunk is measured 4.5 feet above the ground. To find the diameter of a tree, first measure the circumference as shown in the first image below. Then divide the circumference by 3.14. The result will equal the diameter of the tree. Refer to the second image below for reference of these terms.

 

In cases where trees have multiple trunks, use the image below for guidance on how to measure these trees.

3. What are the requirements for tree removal on single-family properties?

The requirements for tree removal on single-family residential properties differs depending on whether other construction activity is occurring at the time the tree removal is proposed. Below is a summary of the code requirements for each situation - please see the Woodinville Municipal Code for a full list of regulations.

Tree removal on single-family properties with construction

Any proposal requiring a tree permit, except as provided for lots without construction below, shall meet minimum tree density credits required for the zone the property is located in:

• For the R-1 zones, properties are required to have 70 tree density credits per acre.
• For the R-4 through R-8 zones, properties are required to have 50 tree density credits per acre.

Tree credits afforded to each tree is determined by measuring the diameter-at-breast-height (DBH) of each tree. Trees credits values are determined by the table below:

The density credit for a single-family property is the sum of all retained existing trees on site, plus any new or supplemental trees that are planted. If a site falls below the minimum tree density with existing trees, supplemental planting shall be required. See WMC 21.50.060 for more information.

Tree removal on single-family properties without construction

If no construction activity is proposed on a single-family residence at the time the tree removal permit is reviewed, then the following requirements apply:

• Up to four (4) trees are permitted to be removed with a single tree removal permit without meeting additional requirements. Up to two (2) permits of this kind are permitted per single-family property.
• If more than two tree removal permits have been requested on a single property, the property must demonstrate compliance with the minimum tree density credits required for the zone. If the property falls below the required minimum tree density with existing trees, supplemental planting shall be required. See WMC 21.50.060 for more information.

The removal of more than four trees with a single permit may be permitted for the purposes of tree thinning or the removal of dead, nuisance, or hazard trees, with the following requirements:

• An arborist report, prepared by a certified arborist, will be required to support the removal of these trees.
• Tree removal in this way shall require compliance with the minimum tree density required for the zone or provide replacement plantings at a rate of three trees per each removed tree.

4. What are the tree removal standards for proposed subdivision or short subdivisions?

Proposed subdivision or short subdivisions will be required to demonstrate the following (see WMC 21.50.080 for additional requirements):

1. The overall site must meet the minimum tree density credits required by the zone the property is located in (see the ‘tree removal on single-family residential properties’ section below for more information).
2. The site shall retain at least 10 percent of the tree density credits of all existing healthy and viable significant trees within the property boundary prior to subdivision.

 

5. What are the tree removal standards for multi-family or non-residential properties?

Multi-family (R-12 – R-48 zones) and non-residential properties do not have minimum tree density credit requirements. Instead, these properties are required to provide perimeter, parking lot, and interior landscaping as required in Chapter 21.43 WMC.

6. Can I trim or remove trees within critical areas or its buffer?

Trimming or removal of trees located within critical areas or buffers is prohibited, except if the trees proposed for trimming or removal are determined to be hazardous, nuisance, or dead by a certified arborist, and this claim is confirmed by the City. In this instance, the removal shall comply with the following:

1. The tree removed is left as a “snag” or wildlife tree. If this is not feasible, then the tree shall be felled and left in place.
2. The property, or Native Growth Protection Area the tree is located in, shall demonstrate compliance with the minimum tree density credits required for the zone (see the ‘tree removal on single-family residential properties’ section below for more information).
3. Provide a replanting plan as required by the City’s critical area code, located in Chapter 21.51 WMC.

7. Can I remove fallen trees from a stream since they may cause flooding?

Logs in streams provide habitat for fish. The State Department of Fish and Wildlife, which manages state fisheries and has jurisdiction over all activities that physically affect streams, strictly prohibits removal of logs from streams. An exception to this policy is if a log creates an imminent hazard during a flood. The City cannot grant such permission, nor assist private property owners in removal (unless it threatens a bridge or other public property).