Tree removal for a home fence? Here’s the thing . . .

You have been planning to install a fence around your home for years, and a quality cedar fence would offer the perfect feeling of protection, security, and privacy. The challenge is your proposed fence line has a tree in it, necessitating either installing a fence around the tree, or tree removal. 

In the city of Seattle, property owners are typically able to remove a tree on their land. They will likely, however, require a Seattle tree removal permit from the city. But why the heavy regulations? 

Seattle has strict tree protection regulations due to the environmental and societal benefits trees provide, such as lessening the effects of “urban heat islands,” improving air quality, and stemming the amount of stormwater runoff and the devastating effects that causes. 

If tree removal is what you really want, here are some regulations and resources that can help clarify and cut through the Seattle red tape like a chainsaw through cedar: 

• Ownership and responsibility of the tree

Are you the sole owner of the tree (both trunk and roots) and the property on which it grows? If so, then you are solely responsible for the care of the tree, maintenance and, if needed, removal. That said, due to certain environmental factors, you may still be required to get a permit to remove a tree, particularly if it’s a larger tree. 

• Tree regulations for the city of Seattle

Go to the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections website for more information on tree conservation, protections, and permits. A certified arborist may need to be hired to assess the tree and complete a report.

• Tree removal and installing a fence

The property owner has every right to install fencing, conduct tree removal, or trim trees that complicate the building of the fence, but only to the property line. 

If a neighbor’s tree branches or roots extend into your property, you can trim or cut them back to your property line. You must be sure, however, that the tree does not suffer damage that threatens the health or life of the tree.

Property owners cannot conduct tree removal on another owner’s property without their permission, even if it has become an obstruction.

Steps for tree removal from your property

• Check up on Seattle’s current tree regulations

To understand the specific requirements and standards for tree removal on your property, go to the SDCI website to contact them directly. 

• Schedule a consult with an arborist

As stated already, you may be required to consult with an arborist as part of the approval process for tree removal. An arborist can knowledgeably examine the tree, identify its health status and size, and decide if putting up a fence is feasible.

• “Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in Seattle?”

Yes. If a permit application is required, complete the process on the City of Seattle’s website.

1.  How ‘bout, like, NOT?

Do you have other options other than removing the tree? If the tree is protected, valuable, or too big, you will need to consider a new fence line or build around the tree.

1. Avoid costly repercussions by following city regulations

Do your wallet a favor and follow the city’s guidelines for tree removal. In Seattle, illegal tree removal can result in hefty fines and additional penalties resulting in $150 for first-time offenders, and subsequent violations of $500 and higher. 

• Keep open lines of communication with neighbors

Good relations with the neighbors makes everyone’s lives better, don’t they? If your proposed fence line and the tree reside in a compromising or debatable spot, communicate and work with your friends (frenemies?) next door for a negotiable, mutually-beneficial outcome.

If that fence you’re proposing is worth the hassle, go for it. Rain City Fence is ready to build you the fence you want! Click here to receive a free estimate on a new fence!