City reminds residents of tree-removal guidelines | Environment

The city is reminding residents that just because branches may have fallen from a tree during the recent winter storm, it doesn’t mean it’s legal to cut the entire thing down.

City of Auburn is encouraging residents to check with the city before doing any work to understand potential requirements or approvals that may needed before work begins.

Current regulations allow property owners to remove up to six trees in a 12-month period without obtaining a City permit, however there are exceptions to this allowance requiring prior City approval, according to the city.  Exceptions include:

• Removal of trees on property that is has environmentally sensitive areas such as a wetland or stream; or,
• Removal of trees or clearing of vegetation on property with hillsides that have moderate to steep slopes; or,
• Topping of trees on property in or near a wetland or stream, or on a hillside

For more information on the City of Auburn’s requirements, please contact Chris Andersen, Environmental Protection Manager, City of Auburn Planning and Development Department, at 253-876-1962 or candersen@auburnwa.gov.