🌳 Kent Tree Removal Permits & Tree Code – 2025 Complete Guide

✅ When You Need a Tree Removal Permit in Kent

Kent typically requires a permit when any of the following apply:

• 🌳 Significant Trees: Removal of trees ≥6″ DBH (diameter at breast height) on single-family lots, or larger thresholds on multifamily/commercial sites.
• 🏗️ Construction or Development: Any removal tied to building permits or land clearing usually triggers a review.
• 🌿 ECAs (Environmentally Critical Areas): Steep slopes, wetlands, and streams have strict protections.
• 🌐 Street Trees: Trees in the right-of-way or planting strips require a city permit and often must be handled by a Registered Tree Service Provider.

⚠️ Not sure? An assessment by an ISA certified arborist can document hazards and clarify permitting needs.

📜 Highlights of Kent’s 2025 Tree Code

• Tree Density & Replacement:
• Removing significant trees typically requires replanting at a 1:1 or 2:1 ratio.
• Replacement trees must be on Kent’s approved species list and usually planted at 1.5″–2″ caliper minimum.
• Construction Protection:
• Install Tree Protection Zones (TPZs) 🛑 to protect root systems during work.
• See our Tree Protection Zones (TPZ) Explained guide for full details.
• Hazard Trees:
• Dead, diseased, or hazardous trees may qualify for expedited removal with an arborist’s report.

🌲 Significant, Landmark & Street Trees in Kent

• Significant Trees: Generally ≥6″ DBH on residential lots.
• Landmark / Heritage Trees: Specially designated; removal requires extra review.
• Street Trees: Located in the city’s right-of-way or planting strip — removal without a permit can lead to fines and penalties.

🛠️ Working in ECAs & Steep Slopes

If your property is in an ECA (steep slope, wetland buffer, stream corridor, or shoreline), Kent will require:

• A critical area review or variance before removal.
• A Tree Inventory & Protection Plan (prepared by an ISA Certified Arborist).
• Justification for any TPZ modifications due to lot lines, existing pavement, or structures.

📝 Documents You’ll Need for Kent Tree Permits

• Tree Inventory Table — DBH, species, canopy spread, health condition.
• Site Plan with TPZ fencing — show driplines and critical root zones.
• Risk Assessment Report — when claiming hazard tree status.
• Replanting Plan — species, size, and placement to meet Kent’s canopy requirements.

📄 Our Kent Tree Services include TRAQ risk assessments, site plans, and TPZ documentation to make permitting smoother.

🌱 Replanting Requirements & Native Options

When removal is approved, Kent requires replanting:

• Usually 1:1 or 2:1 tree replacement ratio.
• Approved species list includes Douglas fir, western red cedar, vine maple, shore pine, and other climate-adapted trees.
• ECAs often require native-only species.

💸 Penalties for Unpermitted Tree Removal

Kent enforces strict penalties:

• Fines up to the appraised value of the tree 🌳.
• Stop-work orders and construction delays.
• Higher penalties in ECAs and shoreline areas.

🔗 Related Guides

• 🌲 Seattle Tree Removal Permits & Tree Code – 2025 Complete Guide
• 🌲 Bellevue Tree Removal Permits & Tree Code – 2025 Complete Guide
• 🌲 Shoreline Tree Removal Permits & Tree Code – 2025 Complete Guide
• 🌲 Tacoma Tree Removal Permits & Tree Code – 2025 Complete Guide
• 🛑 Tree Protection Zones (TPZ) Explained — What Homeowners & Contractors Need to Know
• 🌳 Tree Risk Assessments in Washington — When You Need One & What to Expect

Looking for professional help? Our team of ISA Certified Arborists specializes in Kent tree removal permits, significant tree evaluations, TPZ planning, ECA compliance, hazard tree assessments, and stump grinding. Call Sound Tree Care for expert, code-compliant service.

👷 How Sound Tree Care Helps Kent Property Owners

• Permit-Ready Arborist Reports 📋 — DBH tables, TPZ plans, risk documentation.
• Hazard Tree Evaluations 🌳⚠️ — TRAQ-certified risk assessments.
• Tree Removal & Stump Grinding 🪓 — Safe, code-compliant removal.
• Replanting & Mitigation 🌱 — Native and approved tree planting.

📞 Call 206-486-7790 or request a quote online — we help Kent homeowners, HOAs, and contractors stay compliant and keep projects on schedule.