Thinking about pruning or removing a tree on your Lake Forest Park property and not sure where to start? You are not alone. Local tree rules can feel complicated, especially when you are trying to protect your home and keep projects on schedule. This guide breaks down when you need a permit, how the process works, what it costs, and how to plan smart replacements so you can move forward confidently. Let’s dive in.
When you need a tree permit
The significant tree threshold
Most private property removals require a permit once a tree is considered “significant.” In Lake Forest Park, a tree is significant at 6 inches DBH or larger. DBH means diameter at breast height, measured 4.5 feet above the ground. Trees under 6 inches DBH can usually be removed without a permit unless they are in a critical area or were previously planted as a required replacement. You can review the City’s permit overview and decision tools on the Tree Permits and Information page to confirm your situation.
- Learn more: the City’s summary of permit rules and forms is on the Tree Permits and Information page. For full legal language, see LFPMC Chapter 16.14.
Minor vs. major tree permits
Choosing the right permit type keeps your project on track.
- Minor Tree Permit. Typically covers removing up to two significant trees within any 36‑month period, if they are not in a critical area and not otherwise protected. No ISA arborist report is required. A short public notice posting is required before issuance. See the City’s Tree Permits and Information page for details and forms.
- Major Tree Permit. Required when you exceed minor thresholds, work in critical areas, or when removals are tied to certain development activity. These permits require an ISA‑certified arborist report and a City arborist site visit. Public notice runs for a longer period before removal. Guidance and timelines are outlined on the City’s Tree Permits and Information page.
City rules are implemented under LFPMC 16.14, which sets permit criteria, canopy goals, and replacement requirements.
Special locations and right‑of‑way trees
If a tree is in a critical area, different rules apply and a permit may be required at any size. For questions about critical areas, start with the City’s FAQ and contact the Planning Department.
Street trees are treated as right‑of‑way trees. Adjacent property owners are responsible for maintenance. You must obtain a tree removal permit for a right‑of‑way removal, and you may need a separate Right‑of‑Way permit if sidewalk or road access will be blocked during the work. The City clarifies these points in its FAQ.
How to apply and what it costs
Step‑by‑step application
- Identify the tree and measure DBH at 4.5 feet above grade. If you have a multi‑stem tree, use the City’s guidance tools on the Tree Permits and Information page.
- Decide whether your project is minor or major. If major, plan for an ISA arborist report and a City arborist site visit.
- Select replacement species from the City’s approved Tree List and draft a simple replacement plan.
- Apply online through the City’s permit portal. Your tree contractor must hold a valid City of Lake Forest Park business license.
Fees and timelines
- Application fee. $120 due at application. Payment can be made by cash, check, or card. Card payments include a processing fee. See the City’s Tree Permits and Information page for current details.
- Major permit review. The City’s Urban Forest Planner review time is billed to the applicant at $95 per hour. You are also responsible for any ISA arborist report costs.
- Processing time. Major permits typically take about 2 to 3 weeks after materials are complete. Minor permits can be issued shortly after the required posting period if no follow up is needed. Timelines vary by project complexity and completeness. The City outlines expected timing on its Tree Permits and Information page.
Posting requirements you must follow
- Minor permits. The City provides a laminated Notice of Application. You post it in a conspicuous spot along a public road for at least two business days before removal. On removal day, post the issued goldenrod permit. Keep it posted for at least one week after the work.
- Major permits. Post notice for at least 14 days before removal. Once approved, removal can begin 15 days after permit issuance. Post the goldenrod permit during work and for at least one week after completion. Full instructions are on the City’s Tree Permits and Information page.
Replacement rules and canopy goals
One‑for‑one replacement for most minor permits
When a significant tree is removed, replacement planting is required. For minor permits, you typically plant one replacement tree per tree removed, and the species must come from the City’s approved Tree List, unless the City Arborist approves an alternative in writing. Replacement trees are selected so their projected canopy equals or exceeds what was removed.
Canopy targets by lot type and size
Lake Forest Park measures canopy at 30 years to keep long‑term coverage healthy. If your removal would drop your lot below its goal, a replacement plan is required before the City issues a permit.
- Single‑family lots larger than 15,000 sq ft: 58 percent canopy goal
- Single‑family lots 10,000 to 15,000 sq ft: 39 percent
- Single‑family lots under 10,000 sq ft: 28 percent
- Multifamily and commercial: 15 percent
These standards and the measurement methods are established in LFPMC 16.14. For permits that require arborist review, the City’s qualified arborist calculates canopy coverage. In some cases, permit conditions designed to restore canopy to the goal must be recorded with King County before issuance.
Choosing the right replacement tree
Use the City’s Tree List for approved species and expected canopy sizes at maturity. The City counts future canopy based on the 30‑year projection, so right‑sizing your species helps you meet your lot’s target without overcrowding. For help with species selection or placement, the City Arborist can advise through the permit process.
Emergencies, dead trees, and neighbor questions
Dead trees
Completely dead trees may be removed without a permit, subject to City confirmation. The City asks that an arborist email photos and a brief decline diagnosis to the Urban Forest Planner before removal. Additional rules can apply in critical areas. See the City’s FAQ for specifics.
Imminent hazards and emergency removals
If a tree presents an imminent threat to life or property, emergency removal before permit issuance can be allowed when a TRAQ‑qualified arborist verifies the risk on site. You must notify the Community Development Department within one working day, then submit a permit within one week. Take photos and document conditions if it is safe to do so. The City outlines emergency steps in its FAQ. To find a qualified arborist, use the ISA’s Find an Arborist tool.
Right‑of‑way maintenance and neighbor issues
Adjacent owners are responsible for maintaining right‑of‑way trees by their property. A tree removal permit is required for those trees, and you may also need a Right‑of‑Way permit if you will block public access. For boundary or nuisance disputes between neighbors, the City generally considers these civil matters. An ISA arborist assessment paid for by the concerned party can help inform next steps. See the City’s FAQ for guidance.
Quick homeowner checklist
- Measure DBH at 4.5 feet. If it is 6 inches or larger, you likely need a permit. Use City decision tools on the Tree Permits and Information page.
- If the tree seems hazardous, hire an ISA Certified Arborist. For emergencies, ensure on‑site verification by a TRAQ‑qualified arborist and follow City notification timelines.
- Check whether your tree sits in a critical area. Different rules may apply. The City’s FAQ explains how to confirm.
- Decide whether you need a minor or major permit. Major permits require an arborist report and City review time billed at $95 per hour.
- Pick replacement trees from the City’s approved Tree List and draft your replacement plan with 30‑year canopy in mind.
- Apply online. Pay the $120 application fee. Confirm your contractor holds a City business license.
- Post the required notices. Follow timeline rules for notice and the goldenrod permit, and observe any waiting periods.
Planning to buy or sell in Lake Forest Park
Tree permit history can impact your plans. If past removals pushed a property below its canopy goal, the City may require a recorded replacement plan that runs with the land. That can affect planting timelines and site layout for future owners. Reviewing the City’s permit records and canopy maps, and confirming any recorded conditions, helps you avoid surprises. You can find City resources on the Tree Permits and Information page and the Canopy Coverage Maps.
If you are preparing a home for market, plan tree work early so you can meet posting windows, schedule crews, and complete required replacement planting before listing. If you are buying, factor in the lot’s canopy goals and any pending obligations when you evaluate future projects like additions, patios, or view pruning.
Ready to talk through a plan that fits your timeline and goals in Lake Forest Park? Reach out to the Christophilis Team for local guidance on permits, prep, and smart positioning when you buy or sell.
FAQs
Do I need a permit to remove a 7‑inch tree in Lake Forest Park?
- Yes. A tree with DBH of 6 inches or more is considered significant and typically requires a permit. Review the City’s rules on the Tree Permits and Information page.
How long do Lake Forest Park tree permits take?
- Minor permits can be issued after the required posting if no follow up is needed, while major permits commonly take about 2 to 3 weeks after complete submittal and review, per the City’s guidance.
What are the replacement rules after removal?
- You must replant. For minor permits it is typically one replacement tree per tree removed, using species from the City’s Tree List, with canopy sized to meet long‑term goals.
What should I do if a tree is an imminent hazard?
- Have a TRAQ‑qualified arborist verify the risk on site, document conditions, notify the City within one working day, and apply for a permit within one week as outlined in the City’s FAQ.
Who maintains street trees by my property in Lake Forest Park?
- Adjacent property owners are responsible for maintenance, and a tree removal permit is required for right‑of‑way removals; a Right‑of‑Way permit may also be needed if public access will be blocked, per the City’s FAQ.
