Shoreline Council proposed tree code

Shoreline's proposed tree code, Tree Conservation, Land Clearing and Site Grading Standards, is now available online

On Thursday, October 15, 2026, staff presented the proposed tree code pertaining to emergency, hazard and nuisance trees to the Shoreline Planning Commission.

The agenda includes emails from the community (scroll to item 6.A). The full meeting video is available online. Emails and public comments included concerns about the proposed tree code from residents of Innis Arden, primarily requesting that all trees on a property count toward tree credits, and asking for amendments to vegetation management practices. 

Tree supporters stressed the importance of replacement trees. The proposed code presented by staff 20.50.310 “Hazard and nuisance trees" requires a replacement tree for hazard or nuisance trees only if the tree is the last regulated tree (6” DBH and greater) on a property.

Commissioners had questions about assessment costs related to the determination of hazard and nuisance trees especially for low-income residents faced with the expenses of assessment and tree removal. 

Commissioners also requested the city arborist provide a presentation to show how the components of the tree canopy work together, an overview of private, park and public trees.

By public comment, Save Shoreline Trees referred to the proposed tree code allowing property owners to remove one to three trees per year: hazard, nuisance or healthy trees. Proposed code 20.50.320 “Regulated tree removal” allows a property owner to remove one (1) to three (3) trees annually depending on lot size, provided a minimum number of trees are retained.

This code applies to trees less than 24” DBH, eliminates risk assessment costs and does not require tree replacement, saving money for the property owner. This code applies to trees that are hazard, nuisance, or healthy but does not apply to trees 24” DBH and greater.

City staff will inform the Planning Commission and the public regarding the next discussion about the proposed tree code.

Submitted by Save Shoreline Trees