LOCATIONS
Tree Service
Mercer Island, Washington
Mercer Island has a "Tree City USA" reputation to uphold and some of the most detailed replacement requirements in King County. They focus heavily on Exceptional Trees and use a "Rolling 5-Year" retention requirement for any property seeing development.
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 Mercer Island, Wa
Mercer Island is defined by its deep forested character and 48% canopy cover. Because of this, the City’s tree code (MICC 19.10) is designed to prioritize the retention of mature trees. Whether you are managing a single hazard or planning a renovation, Western Washington Tree Service provides the expert arborist reports and permitting support needed to protect your property and the Island’s canopy.
Is Your Tree "Large" or "Exceptional"?
Mercer Island classifies trees by their size and species. A permit is required for any removal that meets these criteria:
Large Trees: Any tree 10 inches or larger in diameter (DBH).
Exceptional Trees: Trees that are unusually large for their species (typically 30-36 inches+, but smaller for certain species) or any tree in a Tree Grove (8+ trees forming a continuous canopy)
Significant Protection: Removal of any healthy tree 24 inches or larger is strictly limited and often requires a "fee-in-lieu" payment if replacement isn't possible.
Tree Removal Questions?
Contact the City of Mercer Island For specific permit questions, contact the Community Planning & Development department at 206-275-7605 or email epermit.tech@mercerisland.gov.
Key Regulations & Requirements
Given the City of Mercer Island's stringent tracking of cumulative canopy loss, we perform a comprehensive records search to validate your property’s eligibility and secure the necessary approvals for your project.
Rolling 5-Year Retention: For properties with any development history, the city requires that at least 30% of regulated trees be retained over a rolling 5-year period.
The Replacement Ratio: Mercer Island has a tiered replanting requirement based on the size of the tree removed:
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10" to 24" tree: 2 replacement trees required
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24" to 36" tree: 3 replacement trees required
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36"+ or Exceptional tree: 6 replacement trees required.
Hazard & Emergency Trees: If a tree poses an immediate threat, it can be removed, but the city must be notified and a permit filed within 14 days with photo evidence.
Critical Areas: Trees on steep slopes, wetlands, or landslide hazard areas are almost impossible to remove without a Level 2 Tree Risk Assessment and a professional restoration plan.
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.