Shoreline, Washington
Tree Removal and Tree Service in Shoreline
In Shoreline, any tree 6 inches or more in diameter is a significant tree. Owners may remove a limited number of significant trees under 24 inches without a permit over a 36-month period: three on a lot up to 7,200 square feet, plus one more for each additional 7,200 square feet. Beyond that, or in critical areas, a permit is needed.
- County
- King
- Tree rules
- Shoreline Municipal Code 20.50.310 and related tree conservation provisions
- Key local rule
- Three-year removal allowance for significant trees under 24 inches; permits beyond it and in critical areas
- Electric utility
- Seattle City Light
- Main hazards
- Windstorms, tall conifers on small lots, steep slopes near Puget Sound
The removal allowance
Allowance removals cover significant trees under 24 inches DBH, outside critical areas, over any 36-month period.
| Lot size | Significant trees removable without a permit |
|---|---|
| Up to 7,200 square feet | 3 |
| 7,201 to 14,400 square feet | 4 |
| 14,401 to 21,600 square feet | 5 |
| Each additional 7,200 square feet | One more |
The city asks owners to report allowance removals so it can track the 36-month window. Confirm current figures in SMC 20.50.310.
Planning removals in Shoreline
Count recent removals
Over the last 36 months on the lot.
Measure
Is the tree under 24 inches?
Check critical areas
Slopes, streams and wetlands.
Report or apply
Report allowance removals, or apply for a permit.
Code and penalties
The city's checklist describes the tree removal permit as covering significant trees on private property when the work is not part of a building or site development permit and not in the public right-of-way. Removal of significant trees without a required permit can bring substantial penalties per tree, according to the city.
The code has changed over the years. Earlier versions used different significant tree sizes for conifers and deciduous trees and a different allowance, so rely on the current SMC.
A city of tall conifers
Shoreline, just north of Seattle, was largely built after World War II on logged-over land that grew back as Douglas fir, western red cedar and bigleaf maple. Many lots of 7,200 square feet now hold several firs over 100 feet tall, close to houses.
The western edge of the city drops steeply to Puget Sound through The Highlands and Innis Arden, where slopes are critical areas and tree removal is closely reviewed.
Winter windstorms, including the November 2024 bomb cyclone, regularly bring down large conifers across the city.
Small lots with large trees mean most removals here are done in sections, with climbers lowering wood by rope or a crane working from the street, and careful coordination with Seattle City Light for trees near service lines.
North Seattle area warning signs
Conks on Douglas fir trunks
Root and butt rot.
Cedar with dead tops
Drought stress after hot summers.
Firs newly exposed by neighbors' removals
Higher wind risk.
Trees on slopes leaning toward the Sound
Critical area concern.
When does Shoreline require a tree permit?
When a removal goes beyond the allowance, involves a significant tree 24 inches or larger, or is in a critical area or its buffer. A tree removal permit covers fewer than six trees outside critical areas with no clearing or grading. Larger or more complex work needs a clearing and grading permit.
- Within the allowance
- No permit, but report the removal.
- Beyond it
- Tree removal permit.
- Critical areas
- Slopes, streams and wetlands need review.
Shoreline tree questions
Can I remove a 30-inch fir under the allowance?
No. The allowance covers significant trees under 24 inches. Larger trees need review.
Do hazard trees count toward the allowance?
Hazard trees are handled through the city's process. Ask the city before removal.
Who provides electricity in Shoreline?
Seattle City Light serves Shoreline and manages vegetation near its lines.
Is Shoreline's allowance the same as Seattle's rules?
No. Seattle has its own tree protection code.
Why does the city ask me to report allowance removals?
So it can track removals over the 36-month window for each lot.
What if I am in a critical area?
The allowance does not apply. Tree removal in critical areas and their buffers needs city review.
Reach a tree service in Shoreline
Call to be connected with an independent tree company that works in the Shoreline area, or leave your number and one will call you back.
(844) 955-1716Call availability varies by area and time of day
Limbwright is a referral service. Your call goes to an independent tree service company that sets its own schedule and terms. Ask for proof of insurance and a written scope before work starts. How this works
Call now
Talk to a tree service provider in your area. Have the tree's location and what it is near ready.
(844) 955-1716Call nowCall availability varies by area and time of day