Street Tree Pruning Guidelines

Private Property:

No permits are needed to prune trees on private property.

Street Trees:

You need a permit to prune a street tree if:

• More than 20% of the tree's canopy is being removed.
• Tree topping is involved.
• Over 10% of the root system is disturbed.

Getting a Major Pruning Permit: A permit may be issued if an Arborist Report shows:

1. The pruning is necessary to reduce hazards, improve tree health/structure, or enhance aesthetics, following arboricultural practices.
2. The pruning aligns with public standards like vision clearance, vertical clearance above sidewalks/roads, or separation from overhead utilities.
3. The pruning will not harm the tree's health and follows accepted arboricultural practices (e.g., International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) standards).
4. If the tree is on a protected list (e.g., Heritage Trees), additional requirements for protection must be met.
5. See Section 17.58.050(B) of the Zoning Ordinance for regulations regarding pruning.
6. Major Pruning Permit applications are on the Applications and Fees page.

Typical Processing Time:

• Permits usually take 14 to 30 days to process.