Tree removal permits in Bellevue: fees, timeline & requirements (2026)
Everything you need to know about pulling a tree removal permit in Bellevue, Washington — when one is required, what it costs, how long review takes, what documents are required, and which inspections you can expect. Cited to Bellevue Development Services.
Free lookup, no account needed — your lot polygon, zoning, setbacks and overlays, cited to Bellevue's source.
When does tree removal need a permit in Bellevue?
Removing a tree on a lot needs a City of Bellevue clearing and grading permit when the tree is 6 in or more in diameter at 4.5 ft above the ground, or when a qualified tree professional rates it poor, very poor or dead, at any size (BCC 23.76.035(A)(6) and (A)(9); a significant tree is a viable tree of 6 in or more, LUC 20.50.046). A healthy tree under 6 in needs none. In a critical area or its buffer a tree may be removed only if it is hazardous or under an approved vegetation management plan (LUC 20.25H.055). Trees removed with building or other development work are reviewed with that permit (LUC 20.20.900), and a tree entirely in the public right-of-way is regulated by Chapter 14.06 BCC.
From Bellevue's own code
“A clearing and grading permit is required for a project that involves any of the following described in subsections (A)(1) through (A)(9) of this section, except as provided for in subsection B of this section.”Source ↗verified 2026-10-26
Required submittals
- Site plan with tree locations + DBH
- Arborist report (sometimes)
- Replacement / mitigation plan
Inspection sequence
- Site verification (arborist or planner)
- Final replacement compliance
Contractor specialties needed
General contractor
Who can do this work in Bellevue?
Kolmo Construction is a licensed Washington general contractor — KOLMOL*753JS, active through April 10, 2027, bonded and insured — working throughout Bellevue and King County. Kolmo prepares the drawings and submittals, files the tree removal permit with Bellevue Development Services, carries the project through review and inspections, and performs the construction. Call (206) 410-5100 for a Bellevue tree removal quote.
Notes & caveats
Issuing body is city planning / urban forestry. Replacement requirements common (e.g. 1:1 or 2:1 by canopy area). Critical-area parcels (steep slope, salmon stream buffer) have stricter rules. Cities treat a dead, dying or hazardous tree differently, so check this city's rule before removing one. Some need no permit for it (Lynnwood: no permit for a dead, diseased or dangerous tree, LMC 17.15.150). Some allow emergency removal if the city is told afterward (Kirkland: within seven days, KZC 95.15). Some still require the permit and waive the fee (Issaquah: no fee when every tree proposed for removal is deemed hazardous).
How to apply yourself
- 1. Confirm your parcel's zoning & overlays. Run an address lookup for your Bellevue tree removal — we'll pull your specific lot polygon, zoning, setbacks, and any shoreline/ECA/historic overlays.
- 2. Assemble submittals (3).
- 3. Submit through the city portal: Bellevue Development Services ↗
- 4. Track review. Respond to reviewer comments promptly.
- 5. Pay issuance fees (Bellevue's fee schedule sets them) and pick up the permit. Inspection card travels with the job.
Or have Kolmo do it
Kolmo prepares the drawings and submittals, files with Bellevue Development Services, handles reviewer comments, and builds the project.
Licensed WA general contractor KOLMOL*753JS · bonded & insured
Tree removal permits in Bellevue — FAQ
When does tree removal need a permit in Bellevue?
Removing a tree on a lot needs a City of Bellevue clearing and grading permit when the tree is 6 in or more in diameter at 4.5 ft above the ground, or when a qualified tree professional rates it poor, very poor or dead, at any size (BCC 23.76.035(A)(6) and (A)(9); a significant tree is a viable tree of 6 in or more, LUC 20.50.046). A healthy tree under 6 in needs none. In a critical area or its buffer a tree may be removed only if it is hazardous or under an approved vegetation management plan (LUC 20.25H.055). Trees removed with building or other development work are reviewed with that permit (LUC 20.20.900), and a tree entirely in the public right-of-way is regulated by Chapter 14.06 BCC.
How much does a tree removal permit cost in Bellevue?
Bellevue's land use review of a tree removal is $153, and clearing and grading and vegetation permits carry a $53 operations fee (Ordinance 6879, Tables 12 and 20). Apply via https://mybuildingpermit.com.