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Emergency tree removal crew clearing a large fallen tree from a residential property in Bellingham, WA after a storm

Removing a tree might seem straightforward, but in Whatcom County it often requires a permit, especially if your property is near water, within a watershed, or in a critical area. Knowing the rules before cutting can save you time, money, and potential fines.

Here’s a guide to understanding when a tree removal permit is needed in Whatcom County and how to get one.

When You Need a Tree Removal Permit

1. Watershed Properties (Lake Whatcom, Lake Samish, Lake Padden)

If you live within a designated watershed area, a permit is required for removing any significant tree:

  • Evergreen trees with a trunk 12 inches or larger in diameter (measured at breast height).
  • Deciduous trees with a trunk 8 inches or larger.

Tree canopy limits:

  • You can remove up to 20% of tree canopy, but no more than 14,000 square feet total.

2. Tree Removal for Development Projects

Planning to build a house, add on to your property, or create a new driveway? Tree removal tied to development requires a permit.

  • Lot size determines how much canopy you can clear (e.g., smaller lots allow up to 35%, larger lots less).
  • You’ll need to provide a tree retention plan and canopy calculation.

3. Shoreline or Critical Area Buffers

If your property is near water, wetlands, or within 200 feet of a shoreline, stricter rules apply.

  • Shoreline Exemption Permit – if removal costs are under $8,504.
  • Shoreline Substantial Development Permit – if over $8,504.

You may also need an arborist report to show why the tree should be removed.

4. Hazardous Trees

Even hazardous trees, ones leaning dangerously or damaged by storms, usually require a permit before removal. An arborist risk assessment may be needed to support your application.

5. Forestry Practices

If you’re removing trees on larger forested property for timber or land clearing, you’ll need a Forest Practices Application/Notification through the Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

6. Critical Areas and Land Disturbance

Tree removal in or near critical areas (like wetlands, streams, or steep slopes) often requires a Land Disturbance Permit, even for small projects.

What You’ll Need to Apply

When submitting your Whatcom County Tree Removal Permit, you may be asked for:

  • A completed application form (tree removal + master application).
  • A site plan showing your lot, existing trees, structures, and canopy coverage.
  • Canopy calculations (how much you’re removing vs. how much stays).
  • Tree removal and replanting plan.
  • Tree Risk Assessment (if the tree is hazardous).
  • Photos of the trees in question.
  • Application fee (an invoice will be issued once reviewed).

Summary of Permit Rules

Situation Permit Required? Notes
Watershed properties ✅ Yes 20% canopy max, 14,000 sq. ft. limit
Development-related removal ✅ Yes Retention plan + canopy calculation
Shoreline or buffer zone ✅ Yes Shoreline permit + arborist report
Hazardous trees ✅ Usually Risk assessment required
Forest practices (timber harvest) ✅ Yes Apply through WA DNR
Critical areas (wetlands/slopes) ✅ Yes May need Land Disturbance Permit

Frequently Asked Questions

What size tree requires a permit in Whatcom County?

A permit is needed for evergreen trees 12 inches or more in diameter at breast height (DBH) and deciduous trees 8 inches DBH or more.

Do I need a permit to remove a hazardous tree?

If a tree is an immediate hazard to people or property, it can be removed, but you should still notify the county and document the condition.

Are there special rules for shorelines and critical areas?

Yes. Properties within 200 feet of a shoreline, wetland, or stream often need additional permits and reviews under the Shoreline Management Program.

How much canopy can I remove without development?

You can remove up to 20% of the canopy without development-related permits, but larger removals may require approval. Minor pruning is allowed, but anything changing the landscape may need a permit.

What happens if I remove a tree without a permit?

You may face fines, violations, and replanting requirements. The county enforces these rules to protect sensitive areas.

Need Professional Help?

If you need expert tree removal services or guidance on permits, contact Earthworks Tree Service. We’re available 24/7 to assist you with safe, compliant tree care.

 

Earthworks Tree Service: Your Trusted Local Tree Experts

At Earthworks Tree Service, we are more than just tree care specialists—we are stewards of the natural beauty that defines our community. We offer free estimates for all of our tree services.

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These guys rock! Brandon and his team are knowledgeable, professional, and responsible. They are nice guys and do a fabulous job. We will definitely call them again when needing any tree removal or trimming, as well as planting services.

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I recently had the pleasure of working with Earthworks, and I can't recommend them enough! They provided expert advice and showed impressive restraint by advising us against cutting down some of our healthy trees, demonstrating their commitment to preserving our landscape.

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FAQ

We offer a comprehensive range of tree services, including tree removal, trimming, pruning, stump grinding, tree health assessments, emergency tree services, and land clearing. Whether you need routine maintenance or have an urgent tree-related issue, we've got you covered.

A tree may need to be removed if it is diseased or dying, damaging property, posing a safety hazard due to structural issues, or obstructing essential sunlight or views. Our ISA Certified Arborists can assess the tree's condition and recommend the appropriate action.

Tree pruning is essential for maintaining the health, shape, and safety of your trees. Most trees benefit from pruning every 3-5 years, but fast-growing species may require more frequent attention based on specific landscape goals.

In a tree emergency, contact Earthworks Tree Service for our 24/7 Emergency Tree Removal service, which includes rapid response, safe removal of hazardous trees, risk assessment, post-removal cleanup, and coordination with local authorities if necessary.

Yes, we offer a satisfaction guarantee on most of our services and provide warranties on specific services like tree removal and stump grinding; details are discussed during the consultation to ensure you’re fully informed.

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