Dana Ledford – ISA Certified Arborist for Tree Permits & Arborist Reports in Seattle

Arborist reports, tree permitting, and code-compliant project coordination across Seattle and the Puget Sound

⭐ ISA Certified Arborist • Arborist Reports • Permit & Code Compliance
📍 Serving Seattle, Bellevue, Renton, Tacoma, Kent, and the greater Puget Sound

Dana Ledford is an ISA Certified Arborist specializing in arborist reports, tree permitting, and code compliance across Seattle and the Puget Sound. She works closely with homeowners, contractors, HOAs, and municipalities to prepare permit-ready documentation and guide projects through local approval processes. With a focus on clarity and organization, Dana helps ensure tree-related work meets all regulatory requirements and stays on schedule.

Dana Ledford ISA Certified Arborist specializing in arborist reports and permitting

Dana Ledford

ISA Certified Arborist PN-10173A🔗

Dana specializes in arborist reporting, permitting, and project coordination across Seattle and the greater Puget Sound. She works closely with municipalities, HOAs, and contractors to ensure tree-related projects meet local code requirements and move smoothly through the approval process. In addition to preparing detailed arborist reports, Dana manages customer communication and oversees office operations to keep projects organized, compliant, and on schedule.

  • Arborist Reports
  • Permitting
  • Code Compliance
  • Project Coordination
  • Office Management

Professional Arborist Services Backed by Permitting, Reporting & Code Compliance

Dana provides professional arborist services focused on arborist reporting, tree permitting, and code-compliant project coordination. Each project is supported by a clear understanding of local regulations, site constraints, and approval requirements—ensuring work is properly documented and aligned with Seattle-area codes. Backed by ISA Certified Arborist standards, Dana helps guide projects through the permitting process with clarity, accuracy, and efficiency.

  • Arborist Reports for Permitting
    Prepare detailed, permit-ready documentation for city approvals and development projects.
  • Tree Permit Support
    Assist with navigating Seattle tree regulations and submission requirements.
  • Code Compliance & ECA Projects
    Ensure projects meet local tree codes and Environmental Critical Area (ECA) requirements.
  • Project Coordination
    Align arborist recommendations with project timelines, contractors, and city processes.
  • Client Communication
    Provide clear guidance throughout permitting, reporting, and project planning stages.
  • Documentation & Office Management
    Organize reports, applications, and project details to keep everything on track and compliant.
Seattle Arborist Eric Ledford certification badge

ISA Certified Arborist

ISA Certified Arborist 

PN-3744999A

Local Arborist Reporting, Permitting & Code Compliance in Seattle & the Puget Sound

Dana supports tree-related projects throughout Seattle, Bellevue, Renton, and the greater Puget Sound by providing arborist reporting, permitting guidance, and code-compliant project coordination. She works with homeowners, contractors, HOAs, and municipalities to prepare permit-ready documentation and navigate local tree regulations. Her experience includes projects in Environmentally Critical Areas (ECA), permit-driven developments, and sites requiring detailed review and approval. With a focus on clarity and organization, Dana helps ensure projects move smoothly through the permitting process and meet all regulatory requirements.

Dana’s work is supported by Sound Tree Care’s involvement with local organizations including the Seattle Metro Chamber of Commerce, GSBA, and the White Center Business Alliance, along with recognition from programs like Comcast RISE and Nextdoor Neighborhood Faves.

📍 Serving Seattle, Bellevue, Renton, and the greater Puget Sound region

Comcast RISE 2025 grant recipient award for small business in Seattle
Nextdoor Neighborhood Faves award for local tree service company
Seattle Metro Chamber of Commerce member logo
Greater Seattle Business Alliance member logo Seattle
White Center Business Alliance member logo

Meet the Sound Tree Care Arborist Team

Dana works closely with a team of ISA Certified Arborists, each bringing specialized experience in field operations, permitting, and technical tree care. In his role supporting estimating and project coordination, Dana helps align client needs with the right crew, equipment, and approach for each job. Together, the team delivers efficient, well-executed tree work across Seattle and the Puget Sound, ensuring projects are completed safely, on schedule, and in compliance with local regulations.

AJ Flanagan arborist performing tree work and field operations Seattle

AJ Flanigan

ISA Certified Arborist PN-374999A🔗

AJ serves as Assistant Operations Manager, supporting both field operations and client-facing project development. He works closely with crews to coordinate job execution while also assisting customers with estimates, scope development, and problem-solving. With hands-on experience in tree work and a growing focus on arborist services, AJ helps bridge the gap between field operations and client needs to keep projects running efficiently.

  • Estimating
  • Project Scoping
  • Operations Support
  • Customer Consultations
  • Crew Coordination
Eric Ledford ISA Certified Arborist and TRAQ assessor in tree canopy Seattle

Eric Ledford

ISA Certified Arborist PN-9290A 🔗
TRAQ Qualified Tree Risk Assessor🔗

Eric leads advanced tree risk assessments, hazard mitigation planning, and arborist reporting for permitting and development projects. He provides defensible, code-compliant recommendations that align with Seattle and regional municipal requirements.

  • Risk Assessment (TRAQ)
  • Hazard Mitigation
  • Arborist Reporting
  • Code Compliance
  • Technical Removals 
Zachary McCurry ISA Certified Arborist performing technical tree removal

Zachary McCurry

ISA Certified Arborist PN-10373A🔗

Zach is an ISA Certified Arborist who works both in the field and with clients to deliver practical, results-driven tree care solutions. He performs pruning, removals, and site evaluations while also preparing estimates and helping customers understand their options. Zach plays a key role in training crew members and ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently, and in alignment with industry standards.

  • Tree Pruning
  • Tree Removals
  • Site Evaluations
  • Client Estimates
  • Crew Training

Clear Documentation. Approved Projects. Fewer Delays.

A successful tree project starts with clear, defensible documentation. Dana specializes in preparing arborist reports and navigating permitting requirements, ensuring each project aligns with Seattle-area tree codes from the beginning. By coordinating with clients, contractors, and city reviewers, she helps reduce delays, avoid costly revisions, and move projects smoothly through the approval process.

🔍Arborist Reports & Permitting Projects by Dana Ledford in Seattle

Explore real arborist reporting and permitting projects managed by Dana Ledford across Seattle and the Puget Sound. From site assessments and tree inventories to permit-ready documentation and code compliance, these examples highlight how clear reporting and coordination with municipalities, HOAs, and contractors help projects move smoothly from planning to approval.

👉 Click any project to view arborist reports and permitting work completed in your area

Work with an ISA Certified Arborist Who Keeps Projects Approved & Moving

If you need help with tree permits, arborist reports, or project planning, Dana provides clear, code-compliant documentation to keep your project moving forward. Work with an arborist who understands local regulations, communicates with municipalities, and helps ensure smooth approvals from start to finish.

👉 Request Arborist Consultation

Frequently Asked Questions About Arborist Reports, Permits & Tree Regulations

Get answers to common questions about arborist reports, tree permits, and code compliance in Seattle and the Puget Sound. Learn how tree regulations work, when reports are required, and how to keep your project moving through the approval process.

  • Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Seattle?

    In many cases, yes. Seattle regulates tree removal based on tree size, species, location, and condition. Protected trees—especially larger trees, exceptional trees, and trees in Environmentally Critical Areas (ECA)—often require a permit before removal.


    Hazardous trees may qualify for removal with proper documentation, such as an arborist report or Tree Risk Assessment (TRAQ). However, even hazard trees may still require city review depending on the situation.


    Because Seattle’s tree code changes frequently and requirements vary by property and project type, the safest approach is to have an ISA Certified Arborist evaluate the tree and determine whether a permit or report is required before any work begins.

    Seattle Tree Code Guide

  • How much does an arborist report cost in Seattle?

    Arborist report costs vary depending on the scope, site conditions, and level of detail required. Basic assessments are more affordable, while permit-related reports, tree risk assessments (TRAQ), and development planning reports may require additional time. Dana provides clear, upfront pricing based on your project needs.

  • When do I need an arborist report?

    You may need an arborist report for tree removal permits, construction near trees, environmentally critical areas (ECA), or when a tree is considered hazardous. Cities like Seattle often require professional documentation to approve work involving regulated trees.

  • What does an arborist report include?

    An arborist report typically includes tree identification, condition assessment, risk evaluation, site factors, and clear recommendations. For permitting, it may also include code references, mitigation options, and documentation required for city approval.

  • Can you help with tree permits in Seattle?

    Yes. Dana specializes in preparing permit-ready arborist reports and working with municipalities, HOAs, and contractors. She helps ensure documentation meets local code requirements and supports a smoother approval process.

    Seattle Arborist Services

  • What is the difference between a tree risk assessment and a report?

    A tree risk assessment (TRAQ) evaluates the likelihood of failure and potential consequences. An arborist report may include that assessment but also expands into permitting, planning, and documentation for compliance with local regulations.

  • Why do some projects require more documentation than others?

    Projects involving protected trees, development, slopes, or environmentally critical areas often require more detailed reporting. Additional documentation helps cities evaluate risk, environmental impact, and compliance with local codes.

  • Do I need an arborist before starting a project?

    In many cases, yes. Bringing in an arborist early can help avoid delays, identify permit requirements, and ensure your project is planned correctly from the start.

  • How long does the permit approval process take?

    Timelines vary by city and project complexity. Some permits may take a few weeks, while others—especially in ECAs or development sites—can take longer. Accurate, complete arborist documentation helps prevent delays.