Tree Removal in Kent

What You Need To Know About Tree Removal In Kent

• Removal of any tree in a public right-of-way (street trees, planting strips, city easements) requires a permit under city code. (Kent Municipal Code, Title 8)
• Removal or pruning of “significant” or regulated trees on private property — particularly in environmentally sensitive areas (wetlands, creeks, slopes, greenbelts, or other critical areas) — requires city approval.
• Tree removal associated with development, construction, grading, or land-use changes must comply with the city’s tree-retention and mitigation requirements.
• Removal of multiple or “significant” trees may trigger replacement or mitigation requirements according to Kent’s tree-density and protection standards.

When a Permit May Not Be Required

• Minor pruning or maintenance of trees on private property — when not in a public right-of-way, not near critical areas, and not part of a development project — typically does not require a permit.
• Some smaller-scale tree removals may be exempt, depending on lot size, zoning, and absence of environmental impacts.

What Canopy Solutions, LLC Can Do for Kent Clients

At Canopy Solutions, LLC, we provide:

• Permit assessment: Evaluate your property’s zoning, lot history, and environmental overlays to determine if a permit is required.
• Permit preparation and submission: Complete applications for tree removal or pruning, whether for private-property trees, right-of-way trees, or trees in critical areas.
• Arborist coordination: Provide certified arborist reports for tree health, hazard assessment, and mitigation planning when needed.
• Mitigation and replanting: Ensure compliance with Kent’s tree-density and environmental regulations.
• Guidance on safe removal and timing: Advise on scheduling and phasing to minimize regulatory burden and avoid non-compliance.

Important Notes for Kent

• Confirm whether a tree is in a public right-of-way, an environmentally sensitive area, or part of a development/land-use project.
• Even on private property, removal of significant trees or multiple trees may require a permit or mitigation plan.
• Unauthorized removal may result in penalties or mandatory replanting under city codes.