Tree Removal – Development Services

Do I need a permit to remove one or more trees from my property?

In most cases, the answer is No. A permit, however, is required if one or more of the following conditions are true:

It is the vegetative or non-vegetative material that is covering the soil before the tree removal project, and which provides a barrier against erosion.

The bulk of soil cover that is lost due to tree removal is generally from the canopy of the trees that are removed. The tree canopy is the layer of leaves, branches, and stems that cover the ground when view from above.

The area of tree canopy can be estimated based on measurements at the ground level from directly below the tips of the outermost branches. A recent aerial photo can also be used to estimate canopy area.

Any other areas of soil cover loss during tree removal, such as removal of grass, landscaping, structures, etc. must be counted as part of the total removal of soil cover.

The city of Bellevue regulates six types of critical areas in its Land Use Code:

These areas are given special protection because they provide unique environmental functions that are difficult, if not impossible, to replace and because they ensure public health, safety, and welfare.

Visit Permit Processing in Development Services or contact them at 425-452-4898 or permits@bellevuewa.gov.

One of the leading reasons given for tree removals is safety. To ensure you are not needlessly removing an otherwise healthy tree, it pays to talk with a qualified certified arborist or certified forester. There are two websites that can help. Contact the International Society of Arboriculture at http://www.treesaregood.org or the Society of American Foresters at http://www.safnet.org.

Tree ownership is determined by whose property the trunk stands completely on. If the tree is a boundary tree (the trunk straddles a property line), it is owned jointly. In most cases, property owners may trim branches and roots which encroach on their property if they stay within certain guidelines: trim only up to the property line; do not enter the owners property without permission; do not destroy or damage the tree by trimming roots or branches.

If you have a dispute with your neighbor, call the Mediation Program at 425-452-4019. They can help you explore your alternatives, coach you on how to negotiate with your neighbor, or provide free mediation to help you and your neighbor find a workable solution.

See original here:
Tree Removal - Development Services