Federal Way Tree Services You Can Trust

If you’re looking for professional tree services in Federal Way, Sound Tree Care LLC is the local team to call. Our ISA Certified Arborists provide safe, reliable, and code-compliant tree removal, tree trimming, pruning, and stump grinding for residential and commercial properties throughout Federal Way, WA.

From hazardous tree removal and emergency storm response to routine maintenance and long-term tree health care, we have the experience, equipment, and local knowledge to handle the job correctly. We also assist with Federal Way and King County permit requirements, so your project stays compliant from start to finish.

Let's Find Out What We Do at Federal Way!

From planting new trees to trimming old ones, from emergency care to routine maintenance, Sound Tree Care offers the full spectrum of tree services — and we back it all with proven credentials.

Whether you're planning a large-scale removal or need expert help with tree health, our ISA Certified Arborists are ready to guide you every step of the way. We’re proud to be a Comcast RISE 2025 recipient, a Nextdoor Neighborhood Favorite 5 years running, and a trusted name for safe, code-compliant tree care across Federal Way.

πŸ’‘ Certified Arborists. Trusted by homeowners. Award-winning tree care in Federal Way since 2020. — create an online request to get started today.

Professional Tree Services in Federal Way, WA

Federal Way’s steep hillsides, mature tree canopy, and seasonal windstorms make professional tree care a safety and property-value issue — not just a landscaping choice. Sound Tree Care provides ISA-certified tree services in Federal Way including tree removal, tree trimming, stump grinding, emergency storm response, and arborist evaluations for homeowners, HOAs, and commercial properties throughout Federal Way, WA.

Every tree is evaluated by an ISA Certified Arborist for structure, health, and risk, then managed using ANSI A300 pruning standards and city-compliant methods to protect your home, utilities, and long-term canopy value.

Get a Free Estimate

Tell us what you’re dealing with in Federal Way and we’ll recommend the safest, most practical next steps.

  • Fast scheduling & clear scopes
  • Clean job sites
  • Permit-aware guidance when required

Request an estimate →

Serving Federal Way and nearby neighborhoods. For urgent hazards, call (206) 486-7790.

Tree Removal Code at Federal Way

Any proposed removal of trees and vegetation requires approval by the City of Federal Way unless exempted under Federal Way Revised Code (FWRC) 19.120.030. Many non-exempt activities do not require a permit application, only written approval by the city. A permit application, including preparation of a Tree and Vegetation Retention Plan by a qualified expert, may be required in the following instances: a. Tree or vegetation removal within an environmentally sensitive area (reference FWRC 19.145.010 et seq.). b. Removal of trees or vegetation that was required to be retained by or through any development permit. c. Tree and vegetation removal that will change the points where stormwater or groundwater enters or exits the subject property or changes the quality, or velocity of stormwater or groundwater.

Hazard trees, nuisance vegetation and trees with a DSH of up to six inches may be removed without city review and approval if criteria three criteria are met.


  • Any trees or vegetation removed must be outside any area that is within the jurisdiction of Chapter 19.145 FWRC.


  • No trees or vegetation will be removed if that vegetation was required to be retained by or through any development permit issued under this chapter or any prior zoning code.


  • Tree and vegetation removal will not change the points where the stormwater or groundwater enters or exits the subject property and will not change the quality or velocity of stormwater or groundwater

Trees with a DSH of 6" or greater may be removed subject to the minimum tree units per acre standard.


  • Removal of trees with a DSH of greater than 6" that will result in property falling below the minimum tree units per acre standard shall require tree planting as replacement. 

Consult with City before work commences.


If you are unsure as to whether the trees and vegetation you wish to remove requires either written approval by the city or a permit application, you should consult with the Permit Center permitcenter@cityoffederalway.com prior to conducting any tree or vegetation removal activity. 

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Consult with a Certified Arborist


Before removing any regulated tree or submitting a permit application, a site-specific evaluation by an ISA Certified Arborist helps determine whether trees are protected, exempt, or eligible for removal under city code.

A certified arborist can:

  • Measure diameter at standard height (DSH) correctly
  • Identify species that may qualify for exemptions
  • Evaluate tree health, defects, and hazard status
  • Determine if critical areas, buffers, or setbacks apply
  • Prepare arborist reports and documentation accepted by city permit departments

Many tree removals are delayed or denied because size thresholds, location rules, or replacement requirements were misinterpreted. An arborist review ensures your application is accurate, defensible, and aligned with municipal tree protection standards.

Award-Winning, Neighborhood-Trusted Tree Care

Voted by Federal Way homeowners for safe, reliable, code-compliant tree care.

Sound Tree Care LLC is proud to be a Nextdoor Neighborhood Favorite for five consecutive years (2021–2025) — a distinction earned through consistent, high-quality tree care and trusted local service. Homeowners continue to recognize our team for safe practices, professional tree removal, precision pruning, and knowledgeable arborist guidance.

Being voted a Neighborhood Favorite year after year reflects our commitment to reliability, clear communication, and doing the job right. We’re grateful for the trust our local communities place in us and remain dedicated to providing dependable, code-compliant tree care homeowners can count on.

Content Authorship & Review

This page is written and reviewed by ISA Certified Arborists to support clear, accurate guidance for homeowners in the Puget Sound region.

Written By
AJ Flanagan, ISA Certified Arborist

AJ Flanigan

Assistant Operations Manager

ISA Certified Arborist (PN-374999A)

AJ supports on-site assessments and practical recommendations for tree pruning, removals, and safety decisions across the Puget Sound region. This page reflects field experience and current arboricultural standards.

Reviewed By
Eric Ledford, ISA Certified Arborist and TRAQ Qualified Tree Risk Assessor

Eric Ledford

Founder, Sound Tree Care LLC

ISA Certified Arborist (PN-9290A) • TRAQ • NUCA Dig Safe

Eric reviewed this page for accuracy and alignment with ISA best practices, ANSI A300 guidance, and common municipal permitting considerations in the Puget Sound region. This content is informational and not legal advice.

Ready for Expert Tree Services in Federal Way?

Whether you need tree removal in Federal Way, professional tree trimming, or emergency tree services, Sound Tree Care LLC is here to help. Our ISA Certified Arborists provide safe, reliable, and code-compliant tree services in Federal Way, WA, backed by local experience and industry best practices.

We specialize in complex and hazardous tree removals, pruning near homes and utilities, and navigating Federal Way and King County tree regulations. From routine maintenance to emergency storm response, you can trust our team to protect your property and get the job done right.


βœ… Why Homeowners Choose Our Federal Way Tree Services

  • Free, No-Obligation Estimates
  • Complete Cleanup & Debris Hauling
  • Expert Tree Removal & Tree Trimming in Federal Way
  • Emergency Tree Removal & Storm Damage Response
  • Permit Guidance for Federal Way & King County
  • Safe Rigging, Climbing & Aerial Tree Work


🌟 Trusted Local Arborists in Federal Way, WA

  • 🌿 ISA Certified Arborists | TRAQ-Qualified
  • ⭐ 5-Star Reviews on Google, Yelp & Facebook
  • πŸ›‘οΈ Licensed, Bonded, Insured & City-Compliant
  • 🏑 Serving Homeowners Throughout Federal Way


πŸ“ž Call 206-486-7790 – Speak with a local Federal Way arborist
πŸ“ Request an Online Quote:
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πŸ“ Proudly serving Federal Way, WA, including surrounding neighborhoods and nearby South King County communities.