Spokane Valley Special Use & Tree Permit Guide

Land Use and Zoning Washington 3 Minutes Read ยท published March 01, 2026 Flag of Washington

Spokane Valley, Washington requires permits for many special land uses and for tree removal or significant pruning on private and public property. This guide explains common permit types, who enforces the rules, how to apply, typical timelines, and appeal routes so property owners and contractors can comply with local requirements.

Overview of Special Use and Tree Permits

In Spokane Valley, special use approvals (often called conditional or special permits) control uses that need review beyond standard zoning. Tree permits may be required where municipal code or development conditions protect trees on private sites or public right-of-way. For the controlling ordinance language, consult the Spokane Valley municipal code. municipal code[1]

When a Permit Is Required

  • Special land uses not allowed by right in the zoning district, or uses listed as conditional.
  • Tree removal, major pruning, or protection-zone work where the city or a development condition requires a permit.
  • Work in the public right-of-way or on city-owned trees, which typically needs separate authorization.
Always check the municipal code text or contact the Planning department before removing trees.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is handled by the City of Spokane Valley Community Development and Code Enforcement functions. Specific fines, escalation, and exact non-monetary remedies are set in the municipal code and related enforcement rules; fine amounts and escalation details are not specified on the cited page. municipal code[1]

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page; see the municipal code for numeric penalties.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offences referenced but monetary ranges are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, restoration or replanting orders, permit revocation, and referral to court are available per code language.
  • Enforcer and complaints: Community Development/Code Enforcement. Contact the department directly for inspections and to file complaints. Community Development contact[3]
  • Appeals and review: appeals processes are set in municipal procedures; specific time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited page.
If a permit is required but not obtained, the city can order restoration and assess penalties.

Applications & Forms

The city publishes permit applications and instructions through its permits and applications page. For conditional use or special use applications and any tree-related permit forms, see the official permits hub. Permits & Applications[2]

  • Conditional or special use application: name varies by case; fee information and required materials are on the permits page.
  • Tree removal/protection permit: form and submittal instructions, if published, appear on the permits hub.
  • Fees: specific dollar amounts are not specified on the cited permits page.
  • Deadlines and turnaround: timelines depend on application completeness and review requirements; see the permits page for guidance.

How the Review Works

Typical steps include pre-application consultation, submission of a complete application with plans and tree information, technical review by city staff, a public notice period for special uses, and a decision by staff, a hearing examiner, or a council body depending on the permit type.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my private property?
It depends on location and protections in the municipal code; some trees in development sites or right-of-way require permits. See the municipal code and the permits page. municipal code[1]
How long does a special use decision take?
Timeline varies; standard review periods depend on completeness and public-notice timelines and are listed on the permits page if published. Permits & Applications[2]
Who do I contact to report an unauthorized tree removal?
Contact Community Development/Code Enforcement via the city contact page to file a complaint or request an inspection. Community Development contact[3]

How-To

  1. Confirm whether your proposed work is covered by the municipal code and whether a permit is required.
  2. Download and complete the applicable application form from the city permits hub.
  3. Provide required documents: site plans, tree protection plans, photos, and any arborist reports.
  4. Pay application fees and submit materials as directed by the permits page.
  5. Allow inspections and respond to staff requests; attend hearings if required.
  6. If denied, follow the appeal instructions in the decision notice and file within the specified appeal period.

Key Takeaways

  • Check the municipal code early to confirm permit needs and restrictions.
  • Use the city permits hub for official forms and submission instructions.
  • Contact Community Development for pre-application guidance and to report violations.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Spokane Valley Municipal Code - Code of Ordinances
  2. [2] City of Spokane Valley - Permits & Applications
  3. [3] City of Spokane Valley - Community Development Contact

Categories

General Governance and Administration Public Safety Public Health and Welfare Land Use and Zoning Housing and Building Standards Transportation Environmental Protection Parks and Public Spaces Business and Consumer Protection Taxation and Finance Labor and Employment Education Civil Rights and Equity Elections and Campaign Finance Events and Special Uses Signs and Advertising Utilities and Infrastructure Technology and Data