Vancouver, Washington
Tree Removal and Tree Service in Vancouver, Washington
Vancouver, Washington enforces two tree codes: the street tree code in VMC 12.04 and the Tree Conservation code in VMC 20.770. The city's guidance is that trees on private property may not be removed unless permitted through the conservation code or another approved permit, and designated Heritage Trees need approval from the Urban Forestry Commission.
- County
- Clark
- Tree rules
- Vancouver Municipal Code 12.04 (street trees) and 20.770 (tree conservation); Urban Forestry
- Key local rule
- Private tree removal permitted through VMC 20.770; Heritage Trees need Urban Forestry Commission approval
- Electric utility
- Clark Public Utilities
- Main hazards
- Ice storms, east wind events, tall Douglas firs, saturated winter soils
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Vancouver, Washington?
Check before cutting. The city's position is that trees on private property may not be removed unless permitted through the Tree Conservation code, VMC 20.770, or another approved permit. Street trees need a permit under VMC 12.04. Heritage Trees need Urban Forestry Commission approval for removal and major pruning. The city publishes a guide to whether a permit is needed.
- Private trees
- Permit path through VMC 20.770.
- Street trees
- Permit under VMC 12.04.
- Heritage Trees
- Urban Forestry Commission approval.
How the codes are enforced
Urban Forestry enforces the street tree and tree conservation codes to prevent unnecessary removal and destruction of trees. Starting work without a required permit results in a violation and fines. The city recommends contacting Urban Forestry before any major tree work.
Development projects follow separate tree requirements for retention and replanting, set out in the city's guidance for development.
Clark County warning signs
Conks on Douglas fir
Root and butt rot.
Cracked maple limbs after ice
Splits that open further in later storms.
Firs leaning after east wind
Root plate movement.
Dead cedar tops
Drought stress in recent summers.
Ice and east winds
Vancouver sits at the west end of the Columbia River Gorge, where cold east winds pour out in winter. When moist Pacific air rides over that cold layer, freezing rain coats the city. The January 2024 ice storm brought down trees and power lines across Clark County and the Portland area.
Douglas firs, bigleaf maples and ornamental trees all break under ice. Firs that grew in a stand and were left alone when lots were developed are especially exposed to the east wind.
Wet winter soils add to the risk: saturated ground lets wind tip large conifers out by the roots.
Many Vancouver neighborhoods, from Hazel Dell to Fisher's Landing, were carved from Douglas fir forest in the late 20th century, and lots often keep a handful of tall firs close to the house. Those trees are the most frequent subject of permit questions and storm calls.
Before removing a Vancouver tree
Use the city guide
Check whether a permit is needed.
Check Heritage status
Designated trees need commission approval.
Apply through Urban Forestry
For private or street trees as required.
Plan replanting
If the permit requires it.
Which code applies
| Tree | Code | Who approves |
|---|---|---|
| Street tree in the planting strip | VMC 12.04 | Urban Forestry |
| Private tree | VMC 20.770 | Urban Forestry |
| Designated Heritage Tree | Heritage provisions | Urban Forestry Commission |
| Tree on a development site | Development requirements | Planning review |
Vancouver, Washington tree questions
Is Vancouver, Washington different from Vancouver, British Columbia?
Yes. This page covers Vancouver in Clark County, Washington. British Columbia's Vancouver has entirely different bylaws.
What if a Vancouver tree is cut without the required permit?
The city treats it as a violation with fines, and replanting may be required.
How do I reach Urban Forestry?
Through the City of Vancouver's urban forestry page, by phone or email.
Does Clark County follow the same rules?
No. Unincorporated Clark County has its own code.
Can I prune a Heritage Tree?
Major pruning of a Heritage Tree needs Urban Forestry Commission approval.
Does Vancouver plant street trees for residents?
Vancouver's Urban Forestry program runs planting programs and can advise on approved street tree species for your block.
When should conifers near the house be assessed?
Before winter storm season, and again after any major ice or wind event.
Reach a tree service in Vancouver
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