Kirkland trees
Kirkland tree removal and development-permit guide
Kirkland's tree rules are a major site-feasibility issue. The correct path depends on tree size, location, property history, retained-tree requirements, and whether development is planned.
Reviewed against official Kirkland sources · August 2026Notification versus permit
A healthy regulated tree on a developed property may qualify for a Tree Removal Notification only when all city conditions are met. Otherwise a Tree Removal Permit and supporting arborist and replanting information may be required.
Landmark and constrained trees need special care
- Landmark trees are 26 inches DBH or greater.
- Critical areas and buffers have additional rules.
- Shoreline setbacks, Holmes Point Overlay, covenants, and required landscaping can change the path.
- Public right-of-way trees use a public-tree permit process.
Early removal can block development
Kirkland states that removing healthy regulated or landmark trees can trigger a 12- or 24-month hold on new development applications. Do not clear a future building site before understanding the rule.
Development needs a retention plan
Building, land-surface-modification, demolition, and many land-use applications require a Tree Retention Plan. Tree protection fencing and inspections can be issuance prerequisites.
Action plan
What to do next
- 1
Map and measure every potentially regulated tree.
- 2
Check prior removals and property-specific covenants.
- 3
Screen critical areas, shorelines, and right-of-way.
- 4
Use Kirkland's interactive tree guide before selecting a form.
- 5
Coordinate the retention plan with demolition, grading, and building plans.
Official resources