Seattle Memorial Tree Program Rules & Application

Parks and Public Spaces Washington 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 07, 2026 Flag of Washington

Seattle, Washington residents and families can honor loved ones through the Seattle Parks and Recreation memorial tree program operated by the city parks department. This article explains who administers the program, how to apply, typical site and species rules, enforcement and appeals, and practical steps to submit a request or report a problem. Official program pages and application resources are cited so you can download forms and contact the right office directly.[1]

Program overview

The memorial tree program allows donors to request planting or dedication of a tree on eligible Seattle Parks properties under specific terms governed by Seattle Parks and Recreation. Requests are reviewed for site suitability, species selection, maintenance impact, and long-term stewardship. Program eligibility, allowable markers, and donor recognition options are described on the official program page.[1]

Eligibility, site rules, and acceptable memorials

  • Eligible sites are typically public parks and rights-of-way managed by Seattle Parks and Recreation; private property is excluded.
  • Donor memorials generally must be limited to planting a tree and may allow a small plaque or marker subject to size and material rules.
  • Species selection aims to match site conditions and long-term canopy goals; the city may refuse species that conflict with utilities or habitat plans.
  • Long-term maintenance responsibilities and replacement policies are defined by Seattle Parks; donors may be asked to contribute a maintenance gift or endowment.
Plaque size, wording, and installation methods are restricted by Parks to protect the landscape.

Penalties & Enforcement

Seattle Parks and Recreation enforces rules for memorial plantings on city property and handles complaints about unauthorized memorials or damage. For operational questions, complaints, or to report an unauthorized memorial, contact Seattle Parks and Recreation using the official contact channels listed below.[3]

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first or repeat offence procedures and penalty ranges are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: removal orders, requirement to restore the site, or civil enforcement actions may be used; specific remedies and authorities are not specified on the cited page.
  • Enforcer and inspections: Seattle Parks and Recreation is the enforcing department; inspections and investigation are managed by Parks staff and partners.[3]
  • Appeals and review: formal appeal routes and time limits are not specified on the cited page; contact Parks for appeal instructions.[3]
If you plan a private installation, obtain written approval before placing anything on park property.

Applications & Forms

The official memorials information and application details, including any downloadable application or form, are available from Seattle Parks and Recreation. Review the program page for the current application, required donor agreements, and gift/maintenance options.[1]

  • Application name/number: see the Parks memorials application page for the current form and document name or PDF download.[2]
  • Fees: any administrative or planting fees are listed on the application or program page; if not listed, the page instructs how to contact Parks.[2]
  • Deadlines and timelines: submission windows and review timelines are provided on the application or by Parks staff.
  • Submission method: follow the instructions on the form for mail, email, or hand-delivery to Seattle Parks and Recreation.[2]
Always download the latest application directly from the Parks memorials page before submitting.

How-To

  1. Review the official Seattle Parks memorials program page to confirm eligibility and current rules.[1]
  2. Download and complete the memorial tree application or donor agreement available on the Parks site.[2]
  3. Contact Seattle Parks staff to discuss site suitability and scheduling; include photos or a site plan if requested.[3]
  4. Submit the application, any required fee or gift, and await written approval before planting or installing any marker.
  5. If a dispute or violation arises, follow Parks' complaint procedure and request review or appeal as instructed by staff.

FAQ

Who manages memorial tree requests in Seattle?
Seattle Parks and Recreation manages memorial tree requests on city park property; see the official program page for details.[1]
Do I need a permit or form to place a memorial tree?
Yes, use the official memorial tree application or donor agreement available on the Parks site; do not install anything before approval.[2]
How do I report an unauthorized memorial or damage?
Report unauthorized installations or damage to Seattle Parks using Parks' contact and complaint channels listed on the Parks contact page.[3]

Key Takeaways

  • Always get written approval from Seattle Parks before planting or placing a memorial on public property.
  • Use the official Parks application and follow species, plaque, and maintenance rules.
  • Contact Seattle Parks for site review, fees, and any appeal guidance.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Seattle Parks and Recreation - Memorials program and guidelines
  2. [2] Seattle Parks and Recreation - Memorials application and donor information
  3. [3] Seattle Parks and Recreation - Contact and complaints

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