Tree removal permits in Issaquah: fees, timeline & requirements (2026)
Everything you need to know about pulling a tree removal permit in Issaquah, Washington — when one is required, what it costs, how long review takes, what documents are required, and which inspections you can expect. Cited to Community Planning & Development.
Free lookup, no account needed — your lot polygon, zoning, setbacks and overlays, cited to Issaquah's source.
When does tree removal need a permit in Issaquah?
A Tree Permit is required in most cases for removal, excessive pruning (IMC 18.102.090), and creating a wildlife snag. A significant tree is 6" DBH or greater, or 8" DBH or greater for alder and cottonwood; DBH is measured 4.5 feet above average grade. The most common exemption is removal of nonsignificant trees not protected by any other means. Replacement is required at not less than 1:1 and must provide canopy coverage equal to or greater than the tree(s) removed (IMC 18.812.060) — waivable if the site still meets canopy targets after removal.
In the source's own words
“In most cases, a Tree Permit will be required by the City for tree-related activities including, but not limited to, removal, excessive pruning as defined in the Issaquah Municipal Code (IMC) 18.102.090, and creating a wildlife snag.”Source ↗verified 2026-08-11
Required submittals
- Tree removal plan identifying significant trees
- Replacement planting plan meeting canopy coverage
Inspection sequence
- Site verification (arborist or planner)
- Final replacement compliance
Contractor specialties needed
General contractor
Who can do this work in Issaquah?
Kolmo Construction is a licensed Washington general contractor — KOLMOL*753JS, active through April 10, 2027, bonded and insured — working throughout Issaquah and King County. Kolmo prepares the drawings and submittals, files the tree removal permit with Community Planning & Development, carries the project through review and inspections, and arranges the tree work. Call (206) 410-5100 for an Issaquah 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 tree removal in Issaquah — we'll pull your specific lot polygon, zoning, setbacks, and any shoreline, critical-area or historic overlays.
- 2. Assemble submittals: the 2 documents under Required submittals above.
- 3. Submit through the city portal: Community Planning & Development ↗
- 4. Track review. Respond to reviewer comments promptly.
- 5. Pay issuance fees (Issaquah's fee schedule sets them) and pick up the permit. Keep it with the job.
Or have Kolmo do it
Kolmo prepares the drawings and submittals, files with Community Planning & Development, handles reviewer comments, and arranges the tree work.
Licensed WA general contractor KOLMOL*753JS · bonded & insured
Tree removal permits in Issaquah — FAQ
When does tree removal need a permit in Issaquah?
A Tree Permit is required in most cases for removal, excessive pruning (IMC 18.102.090), and creating a wildlife snag. A significant tree is 6" DBH or greater, or 8" DBH or greater for alder and cottonwood; DBH is measured 4.5 feet above average grade. The most common exemption is removal of nonsignificant trees not protected by any other means. Replacement is required at not less than 1:1 and must provide canopy coverage equal to or greater than the tree(s) removed (IMC 18.812.060) — waivable if the site still meets canopy targets after removal.
How much does a tree removal permit cost in Issaquah?
Issaquah's tree removal permit is $180, or $726.34 in a critical area; a retroactive permit is $726.34, or $1,452.68 in a critical area, and the permit for hazardous trees is listed without a fee. The fee in lieu of a replacement tree is $1,000 per tree, or $500 for a tree tied to a single-family detached or middle housing dwelling (Land Use Fee Schedule, effective April 7, 2026). The fee is due at application (IMC 3.64.010). Apply via https://mybuildingpermit.com.