Kirkland regulations require that a property owner submit a Tree Removal/Pruning Request with an arborist report prior to pruning or removal if: More than two trees are removed within a 12-month period; the tree(s) is located in a sensitive area such as a native growth protection easement, stream bank or on a steep slope; the tree(s) is located in the public right-of-way; or the tree(s) is one or both of the last two trees on a property.

The City requires replacement plantings for trees removed in critical areas or if the removed tree is one or both of the last two trees on a property.

Photos, rather than an arborist report, may be sufficient for your request to prune or remove trees with obvious defects, diseases, or are causing physical damage to property.

There is no fee to submit your Tree Removal/Pruning Request. City approval will not be granted to prune or remove public trees solely for the purpose of enhancing views. Should pruning and/or removal occur without prior approval from the City, you may be subject to restoration, fines, or both.

For tree regulations and to download the Tree Removal/Pruning Request form, visit the City Web site and search “trees and landscaping.” For assistance, call the Planning & Community Development Department at 425-587-3225.