Spokane tree ordinance: planting & removal rules

Land Use and Zoning Washington 3 Minutes Read · published February 10, 2026 Flag of Washington

Spokane, Washington homeowners and businesses must follow city rules for planting, pruning, and removing trees on public and private property. This guide summarizes relevant city code and Urban Forestry practices, explains when a permit is required, and shows how to apply, appeal, or report violations for trees affecting sidewalks, rights-of-way, and protected public trees[1].

Always check the city code or contact Urban Forestry before removing a street or public tree.

Scope: which trees are covered

The city’s rules typically distinguish between:

  • Street or public trees in the right-of-way or park property.
  • Private property trees that may affect public safety, utilities, or protected views/species.
  • Trees protected by ordinance or located in special districts (historic, riparian buffers).

When permits are required

Permits are commonly required for removal of street trees and for significant pruning or removal of trees in protected zones. Small routine pruning on private property that does not affect public safety may not need a city permit. Contact Urban Forestry or the city permits office for the exact threshold and any species-specific rules.

Permit requirements differ for street/public trees versus private yard trees.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is handled by the City of Spokane departments responsible for Urban Forestry, Parks, or Code Enforcement. The city code and enforcement rules describe prohibited acts, remedies, and penalties. Specific fine amounts and escalation rules are not specified on the cited municipal code summary page; consult the official code and Urban Forestry for fee schedules and civil remedies[1].

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation for repeat or continuing violations: not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: removal or restoration orders, stop-work orders, court actions, and abatement may be used.
  • Enforcer: City of Spokane Urban Forestry, Parks, or Code Enforcement; complaints filed via the city service portal or department contact.
  • Appeals/review: appeal routes are available through administrative review or hearing processes; time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited summary page.
  • Defences/discretion: permits, emergency removals for safety, or other authorized exceptions may apply.

Applications & Forms

The city publishes permit applications and procedures for tree work and street tree removals. If a specific form number or fee is required it should be confirmed with Urban Forestry or the permits office; the cited municipal code summary page does not list a specific form number or fee schedule[1].

How to comply: practical steps

  • Confirm whether the tree is on public property or private property.
  • Contact City of Spokane Urban Forestry to determine if a permit is required.
  • If a permit is required, complete the official application and submit required plans and photos.
  • Pay applicable fees and schedule any required inspection.
  • Follow inspection instructions and retain permits/receipts until work is complete.
Work without required permits can lead to restoration orders and fines.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in my front yard?
It depends on whether the tree is on private property, in the public right-of-way, or protected by an ordinance; contact Urban Forestry to confirm.
Who pays for a city-required replacement tree?
Replacement or mitigation requirements depend on the permit and may require the property owner to plant or pay for replacement trees as specified by the permit.
How do I report a hazardous street tree?
Report hazardous or fallen trees to the City of Spokane service portal or Urban Forestry office for priority inspection and response.

How-To

  1. Identify tree location and ownership (private vs public right-of-way).
  2. Contact City of Spokane Urban Forestry by phone or the city service portal to confirm permit needs.
  3. Obtain and complete the official removal/pruning permit application if required.
  4. Submit photos, site plan, and fee; schedule inspection if requested.
  5. Complete work per permit conditions and retain documentation; appeal any adverse enforcement action within the city’s appeal timeline.

Key Takeaways

  • Street and public trees are regulated separately from private yard trees.
  • Contact Urban Forestry before removing or altering trees that may affect sidewalks, utilities, or public property.
  • Penalties and fees are set in city rules; specific amounts should be confirmed with the city.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Spokane Municipal Code - Code of Ordinances

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