LOCATIONS
Tree Service
Kirkland, Washington
Navigating Kirkland's Landmark Tree regulations and annual removal allowances requires precision. We handle the technical side, including arborist reports and site mapping, so you can manage your property’s canopy with confidence, knowing every removal meets the city’s rigorous preservation standards.
Not sure if you're in our service area? Give us a call—we’re often able to accommodate areas beyond this list for urgent or large-scale projects
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU CUT
Tree Removal in Kirkland, Wa
Kirkland is dedicated to expanding its urban forest, which means tree removal is closely regulated. Whether you are in Juanita, Bridle Trails, or Finn Hill, Western Washington Tree Service helps you stay compliant with the Kirkland Zoning Code (KZC 95). We handle the technical side so you can enjoy a safe, beautiful landscape.
Is Your Tree "Significant" or "Landmark"?
Kirkland uses size thresholds to determine what kind of paperwork is required:
Significant Trees: Any tree 6 inches or larger in diameter (DBH).
Landmark Trees: Any healthy tree 26 inches or larger in diameter. These are high-priority for the city and require a more intensive permit process.
Key Regulations & Requirements
Because the City of Kirkland tracks every removal against your property’s history, we help you verify your remaining "allowance" before the first cut is made.
The 1:1 and 3:1 Rule: For every significant tree removed, one replacement tree is required. For Landmark trees, you must plant three replacement trees.
Tree Removal Notification: Even for "free" removals within your allowance, the city now requires a formal notification to be filed via MyBuildingPermit.com.
Annual Removal Allowances
For developed residential lots, the number of healthy significant trees you can remove for "aesthetic" reasons depends on your lot size, provided you maintain the city’s minimum tree density:
Lot Size
Max Annual Removal
Up to 10,000 sq. ft
2 Trees Per Year
10,001 – 20,000 sq. ft.
3 Trees Per Year
20,001 sq. ft. or larger
4 Trees Per Year
Hazard & Nuisance Trees: If a tree is damaging your foundation or is high-risk, it may be removed outside your annual allowance, but it requires a TRAQ Certified Arborist Report.
Critical Areas: Any tree near a wetland, stream, or steep slope requires a specialized permit and often a native replanting plan.
Tree Removal Questions?
Contact the City of Kirkland For specific questions about your property’s tree history, contact the Development Services Center at 425-587-3600 or visit Kirkland’s Tree Management Page.
Schedule your free estimate with our arborists today. We’ll evaluate your trees, answer your questions, and provide a clear plan. (425)-800-7673
Nature doesn’t clock out. Neither do we! Call us 24/7 for a rapid emergency response. We’re on-site fast with the heavy equipment needed to secure your property.
Nature doesn’t clock out. Neither do we! Call us 24/7 for a rapid emergency response. We’re on-site fast with the heavy equipment needed to secure your property.