Bothell tree rules
Bothell tree removal rules for homeowners
Bothell does not require a permit for every private tree removal, but the exemption is narrower than it first appears. Lot size, development history, required landscaping, critical areas, and the reason for removal can change the answer.
On this page5 sections
Official starting point: Bothell private-tree removal guide. Confirm the current rule and the exact tree location before authorizing work.
Start with Bothell's four-part exemption
Bothell's private-tree handout is dated May 31, 2023. Its general exemption requires an existing individual lot of record, the listed size or landscaping condition, more than five years since establishment of the subdivision or development, and no critical areas. For the ordinary lot-size branch, the handout specifies less than 20,000 square feet. It separately describes a required-landscaping test for nonresidential and multifamily uses. A blank GIS layer does not prove the no-critical-area condition.
Read the Trees and Removal on Private Property guide with the current code and ask Planning about newer requirements or uncertainty before removal.
Critical areas change the path
Wetlands, streams, shorelines, and steep slopes greater than 40 percent are specifically listed in the city guide. A tree that looks ordinary can still be regulated because of where it grows.
- Do not rely on an aerial image to clear a critical-area question.
- Ask Planning to confirm the parcel and buffer before removal.
- Expect a replanting plan when a hazardous tree is removed from a critical area.
Know when an arborist is needed
Bothell says an arborist report is required for non-exempt significant-tree removal and for tree-removal requests in critical areas or shorelines. The report should address condition, risk, and the proposed mitigation rather than simply recommend removal.
Our take
Treat the exemption as a checklist, not a shortcut. If the property is being redeveloped, has a recent land-use history, or contains a slope or water feature, confirm the path in writing before a contractor cuts anything.
Practical worksheet
Put this guide to work
Worksheet updated . This is a planning example. Regulatory sources and data have their own dates.
Test whether a retained tree can actually survive the project
The finished house avoids a trunk, but the excavation, shoring, utility trench or equipment route crosses its root area. Counting that tree as retained on a preliminary plan can overstate what fits. Aerial imagery can suggest canopy locations but cannot reliably establish species, trunk size, health, ownership or the required protection area.
- Inventory
- Have the arborist identify relevant trees, including neighboring trees affected by work. Match tree numbers to the survey and photographs.
- Overlay the disturbance
- Show foundation excavation, grading, retaining walls, drainage, utilities, access and storage on the same drawing as protection areas.
- Compare layouts
- Ask which trees must be retained, which removal path applies and how replacement or credits are calculated for this project. Test a smaller or shifted footprint before assuming removal.
- Budget the full obligation
- Include assessment, protection installation, monitoring, replacement planting, irrigation, maintenance and any required security or inspection.
Do not remove trees first to simplify future development. Ask the City whether stand-alone removal affects a later development application. Keep written authorization and the approved protection plan available to every site contractor.
Action plan
Before tree work begins
- 1
Confirm the parcel, lot size, and date of the last development approval.
- 2
Check for wetlands, streams, shorelines, and slopes over 40 percent.
- 3
Measure and map the tree, including nearby boundary and street trees.
- 4
Ask Bothell Planning whether the removal is exempt and save the response.
- 5
Use a qualified arborist when the tree is significant, hazardous, or in a protected area.
Official resources