This added flexibility allows for trees to be planted more equitably and spread throughout neighborhoods or public spaces with historically less tree canopy. When a tree must be removed, a property owner can choose to either replant onsite or pay the equivalent value into the One Seattle Tree Fund. All heritage trees designated by the City’s heritage tree program (now called Tier 1 trees) must be retained unless hazardous, and new development in Neighborhood Residential zones require trees be planted along the sidewalk in the right of way. Trees formerly known as “exceptional” (now called Tier 2 trees) will have a lower threshold for designation and are protected from removal when they are at least 24” in diameter, rather than 30”.

Removal of hazardous trees will also require tree replacement, and there are new incentives for property owners and builders to retain trees. Under the new ordinance, the City will add tree protections for over 157,000 more trees by limiting removal of trees on properties not undergoing redevelopment and requiring replacement for any tree removed that is 12” or greater in diameter. The assessment also showed the canopy loss is not happening equitably, with neighborhoods most impacted by racial and economic injustices starting with less canopy coverage and losing more canopy than the citywide average. Losses in these two areas account for 78% of the total canopy loss between 20. The new tree code ( Ordinance 126821) strikes a balance by protecting and growing a healthy tree canopy citywide and addressing inequities in tree canopy distribution that impact historically underserved communities while supporting housing production needed during a homelessness and housing crisis.Īs shown in the Office of Sustainability and Environment’s 2021 Tree Canopy Assessment, most tree loss is occurring outside of development and in areas zoned Neighborhood Residential (formerly Single Family) and Parks and Natural Areas. New protections safeguard 157,000 more trees and address inequities in canopy coverage by planting new trees in historically underserved neighborhoodsīeginning July 30, Seattle’s new tree protection ordinance will take effect for all trees on private property.

State of survival code september 2020