The Problem

Managing Trees is Complex

Nine different city departments manage trees, and it’s often confusing as to who does what and when a permit is needed. And there’s a need for better data to account for changes to our tree canopy.

Lack of Environmental Equity

Wealthy, white neighborhoods are more likely to have tree-lined streets than poor neighborhoods or neighborhoods of color.

The Solution

Councilmember Johnson’s proposed framework would create stronger stewardship of the trees we have, allow our canopy to keep pace with growth and greater density, and plant more trees in neighborhoods that lack them: poor areas and communities of color.

Download the Infographic - Trees for All

Benefits

A Cleaner Environment

Improved water quality and cleaner air

Improved water quality and cleaner air A More Resilient Environment

A more robust ecosystem responsive to climate change

A more robust ecosystem responsive to climate change A More Beautiful City

Increased natural beauty & better connection to nature

Increased natural beauty & better connection to nature A Healthier City

Better mental & physical health for everyone

Better mental & physical health for everyone A More Equitable City

More trees will be planted in areas without them

How it Works

Create a One-Stop Online Portal for Tree Permits

A new citywide website would be created for tree permits, making it simple for the public to get what they need. Require a Permit for Cutting Down Trees

Any tree over 6” in diameter or trees designated to have special value would requite a permit for removal. Plant a New Tree(s) Somewhere Else

You can replace the lost canopy by planting a new tree(s) on your property or nearby.



OR

Pay into a “Tree Offset” Fund

If you don’t want to replace the tree onsite, you can pay an in lieu fee and the city will plant tree(s) elsewhere.

Calendar

Simultaneous with the publication of the SEPA notice, the draft tree regulation bill will be available on this webpage. The draft bill will also be linked to the SEPA notice.

Public comment will be taken during PLUZ meetings. The public hearing on the draft bill is planned for September 5. Written comment on the draft bill may be sent to Councilmember Johnson at Rob.Johnson@seattle.gov or PO Box 34025 |Seattle, WA 98124-4025.

Times/Dates subject to change.

Publish SEPA Notice Publish notice of State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) threshold determination regarding tree regulation legislation around the end of July Comment & Appeal Period Comment and appeal period on SEPA threshold determination for bill around the end of July-beginning of August Possible Briefing & Discussion Possible briefing and discussion at the Planning, Land Use & Zoning Committee (PLUZ) on Wednesday, August 1, 2018 Public Hearing Public hearing at the PLUZ Committee on Wednesday, September 5, 2018 starting at 9:30 AM at Seattle City Hall Under Review The proposed legislation is undergoing additional review

Get Involved

Become a Tree Ambassador

Volunteer to become a steward of Seattle’s trees!

Volunteer to become a steward of Seattle’s trees! Plant a FREE Tree

Contact Trees for Neighborhoods to increase the canopy in your own yard is a public hearing on Wednesday, September 5, 2018 starting at 9:30 AM at Seattle City Hall.

Resources