The following residents have reached out to OSE and the Urban Forestry Commission with
emails about the City’s update to the tree ordinance.
Emails through 11/7/19
From: Gina Massoni <info@sg.actionnetwork.org>
Sent: Wednesday, October 30, 2019 4:55 PM
To: Pinto de Bader, Sandra <[email protected]>
Subject: Please Protect Seattle’s Trees
CAUTION: External Email
Sandra Pinto de Bader,
As Green Seattle Partnership Forest Steward, I urge you to update our tree ordinance.
Seattle’s trees and urban forest are vital to keeping our city healthy and livable. Trees and the
urban forest comprise a vital green infrastructure. Trees reduce air pollution, storm water
runoff and climate impacts like heat island effects, while providing essential habitat for birds
and other wildlife. They are important for the physical and mental health of our residents.
Seattle’s rapid growth and an outdated tree ordinance are reducing these beneficial effects as
trees are removed and not replaced. It is urgent to act now to stop this continued loss of
trees, particularly large mature trees and tree groves. It is important to promote environmental
equity as trees are replaced.
Please update Seattle's Tree Protection Ordinance as recommended in the latest draft by the
Seattle Urban Forestry Commission.
Here are the key provisions that need to be in the updated tree ordinance:
1. Expand the existing Tree Removal and Replacement Permit Program, including 2-week
public notice and posting on-site, as used by the Seattle Department of Transportation
(SDOT) – to cover all Significant Trees (6” and larger diameter at breast height (DBH)) on
private property in all land use zones, both during development and outside development.
2. Require the replacement of all Significant Trees removed with trees that in 25 years will
reach equivalent canopy volume – either on site or pay a replacement fee into a City Tree
Replacement and Preservation Fund. Allow the Fund to also accept fines, donations, grants
and set up easements.
3. Retain current protections for Exceptional Trees and reduce the upper threshold for
Exceptional Trees to 24” DBH, protect tree groves and prohibit Significant Trees being
removed on undeveloped lots.
4. Allow removal of no more than 2 Significant non-Exceptional Trees in 3 years per lot
outside development
5. Establish one citywide database for applying for Tree Removal and Replacement Permits
and to track changes in the tree canopy.
6. Post online all permit requests and permit approvals for public viewing.
7. Expand SDOT’s existing tree service provider’s registration and certification to register all
Tree Service Providers (arborists) working on trees in Seattle.
8. Provide adequate funding in the budget to implement and enforce the updated ordinance.
Gina Massoni
rivergirl@massoni.net
4734 38th Ave NE
Seattle , Washington 98105
From: Celia Landis <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, November 01, 2019 2:06 PM
To: Pinto de Bader, Sandra <[email protected]>
Subject: Please Strengthen Seattle’s Tree Ordinance
CAUTION: External Email
Sandra Pinto de Bader,
Seattle’s trees and urban forest are vital to keeping our city healthy and livable. Trees and the
urban forest comprise a vital green infrastructure. Trees reduce air pollution, storm water
runoff and climate impacts like heat island effects, while providing essential habitat for birds
and other wildlife. They are important for the physical and mental health of our residents.
Seattle’s rapid growth and an outdated tree ordinance are reducing these beneficial effects as
trees are removed and not replaced. It is urgent to act now to stop this continued loss of
trees, particularly large mature trees and tree groves. It is important to promote environmental
equity as trees are replaced.
Please update Seattle's Tree Protection Ordinance as recommended in the latest draft by the
Seattle Urban Forestry Commission.
Here are the key provisions that need to be in the updated tree ordinance:
1. Expand the existing Tree Removal and Replacement Permit Program, including 2-week
public notice and posting on-site, as used by the Seattle Department of Transportation
(SDOT) – to cover all Significant Trees (6” and larger diameter at breast height (DBH)) on
private property in all land use zones, both during development and outside development.
2. Require the replacement of all Significant Trees removed with trees that in 25 years will
reach equivalent canopy volume – either on site or pay a replacement fee into a City Tree
Replacement and Preservation Fund. Allow the Fund to also accept fines, donations, grants
and set up easements.
3. Retain current protections for Exceptional Trees and reduce the upper threshold for
Exceptional Trees to 24” DBH, protect tree groves and prohibit Significant Trees being
removed on undeveloped lots.
4. Allow removal of no more than 2 Significant non-Exceptional Trees in 3 years per lot
outside development
5. Establish one citywide database for applying for Tree Removal and Replacement Permits
and to track changes in the tree canopy.
6. Post online all permit requests and permit approvals for public viewing.
7. Expand SDOT’s existing tree service provider’s registration and certification to register all
Tree Service Providers (arborists) working on trees in Seattle.
8. Provide adequate funding in the budget to implement and enforce the updated ordinance.
Celia Landis
cbjod@aol.com
28th Ave NE
Seattle, Washington 98125
From: Annie Thoe <neighborhoodtreekeepers@gmail.com>
Sent: Friday, November 01, 2019 4:22 PM
To: Bagshaw, Sally <[email protected]>
Cc: Pinto de Bader, Sandra <Sandra.Pinto_de_Bader@Seattle.gov>; Finn Coven, Jessica
<Jessica.FinnCoven@seattle.gov>; Durkan, Jenny <Jenny.Durkan@seattle.gov>
Subject: Budget needed for added tree protection and writing of new tree protection ordinance
CAUTION: External Email
Dear Councilwoman Bagshaw,
Thank you so much for all your work with tree protection and your community service on the
Seattle City Council. I am writing to ask Seattle City Council to ensure the Seattle City 2020
budget allocates funding for added tree protection and funding to update our tree protection
ordinance with enforcement within DCI.
Here’s a list of questions and concerns that we, Neighborhood Treekeepers of Seattle feel need
to be addressed by the city with 2020 budget ahead:
1. What is the chain of command within city staff that is working on updating the tree
ordinance (outside of Urban Forestry Commission? Currently Seattle has 2-3
arborists which is wholly insufficient and overwhelmed for a city of this size and the rapid loss of
mature trees and canopy. Permit review, follow-up for penalties/fines for tree protection
enforcement is lacking. In addition to additional Arborists, we need staff allocated with
experience in Tree Policy, GIS. and qualifications to enforce the new tree protection ordinance.
2. How can we speed up our tree protection before we lose more of our mature trees and
canopy? — Why has it taken 10 years for the City Council and Mayor to update our tree
ordinance?
With anticipation of “fast-tracking” for development permits, the danger to our tree canopy and
environmental resources could be a disaster without more safeguards to track tree protection
and replanting with necessary tree protection staff.
3. How many building permits are not reviewed for trees on-site by city arborists? Can
we audit this process to learn to do this better?
Seattle currently has a mostly "complaint-based" system for protecting trees which is not an
effective tree protection ordinance as shown by the recent Tree Regulations Research Project
Report. Developers can ask the homeowner to remove the tree before they purchase the
property so they don’t have to justify cutting down a tree as a hazard. Nor do developers have
to replace a tree because it is exceptional. Many homeowners are removing trees before
applying for a building permit. We need to set up a tracking system for tree loss.
4. How is the city tracking and enforcing tree replacement when trees are removed?
There is no record that the city is enforcing the SMC25.11.090 provision of replacing trees— the
city isn’t getting money from developers to replace trees that they can’t replace on site. We
need city employees tracking tree loss and making sure trees are replaced. Budget and staffing
is needed to track our tree loss replacement and retention, permits, fines. The current
enforcement and ordinance is overwhelmed with only 2-3 FTE arborists to handle cases. How
many staff people will be needed to enter tree loss data, complaints and phone calls regarding
tracking tree loss and replacement?
5. What can we citizens do to help speed up this process of tree protection?
Cutting our mature trees and groves at this time of climate crisis when we need trees most feels
insane. When I asked the foreman who managed a recent clearcut of over 45 exceptional trees
what I could do to save our trees told me “I don’t like it either. The only way you can stop this
and save these trees is by getting a better tree ordinance.”
The City Council and Mayor need to act now to save our trees for future generations. We have
been writing, calling, attending meetings and working with our neighbors to speed up this
process of tree protection. We must address our serious climate problem— the city is getting
smoggier, louder without our mature trees to help us. No air filters can replace a living tree that
helps us breathe, provides shade, filters water and essential wildlife habitat. The birds, other
animal and insects populations are going fast and depend on us for advocating for them, too. If
we don’t do something now, we can’t replace these exceptional trees and habitat in our lifetimes
nor will have a healthy, livable city.
Thank you so much for your service to Seattle and stewarding our land.
Sincerely,
Annie Thoe
206-271-4270
Neighborhood Treekeepers
www.dontclearcutseattle.org
From: Stuart Niven <pan[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, November 02, 2019 6:40 AM
To: Annie Thoe <neighborhoodtreekeepers@gmail.com>
Cc: Bagshaw, Sally <[email protected]>; Pinto de Bader, Sandra
<Sandra.Pinto_de_Bader@Seattle.gov>; Finn Coven, Jessica <Jessica.FinnCoven@seattle.gov>; Durkan,
Jenny <Jenny.Durkan@seattle.gov>
Subject: Re: Budget needed for added tree protection and writing of new tree protection ordinance
CAUTION: External Email
Thank you Annie, I second this.
Stuart of PanorArbor
(Please excuse the postcard type sentences. My arborist fingers are not phone faeries!)
From: heidi calyxsite.com <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, November 03, 2019 9:11 AM
To: Pinto de Bader, Sandra <[email protected]>
Subject: FW: FW: Tree Code Amendments Update
CAUTION: External Email
Hi Sandra
I am submitting this into the record to encourage OSE to look at how other cities address tree
RETENTION during development.
Many thanks,
Heidi
Heidi Siegelbaum
(206) 784-4265
http://www.linkedin.com/in/heidisiegelbaum
From: Siegelbaum, Heidi <heidi.siegelba[email protected]du
>
Sent: Saturday, November 02, 2019 6:11 PM
To: heidi calyxsite.com <heidi@calyxsite.com>
Subject: Fw: Tree Code Amendments Update
Heidi Siegelbaum
Washington Stormwater Center
Stormwater Strategic Initiative Lead Team
Stormwater Program Analyst
(253) 445-4502
heidi.siegelbaum@wsu.edu
Washington Stormwater Center
Washington State University
2606 West Pioneer
Puyallup, WA. 98371
www.wastormwatercenter.org
From: City of Kirkland <kirkland@service.govdelivery.com>
Sent: Saturday, November 2, 2019 5:13 PM
To: Siegelbaum, Heidi <
heidi.siegelbaum@wsu.edu>
Subject: Tree Code Amendments Update
CITY OF KIRKLAND UPDATE:
TREE CODE AMENDMENTS UPDATE
You are subscribed to the
Tree Code Amendments List-Serv for the City of Kirkland. The Tree Code Amendments
web page
has recently been updated and is now available online.
REMINDER: The Planning Commission and Houghton Community Council will hold a joint public hearing on Tuesday,
November 5, 2019 at 7:00 pm at City Hall Council Chambers to receive public comment on the proposed amendments
to Kirkland Zoning Code Chapter 95. You are encouraged to attend this hearing to express your views on proposed
amendments that will affect city
-wide tree removal and tree retention related to development. City staff will be
available to answer ques
tions about the code amendments prior to the hearing from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm in the
Council Chambers lobby.
Written comments may be submitted directly to the Planning Commission and/or Houghton Community Council up to
5:00 pm before the hearing in care of
Deb Powers, Urban Forester, Kirkland Planning and Building Department. Please
refer to Case No. CAM18
-00408 and include your name, mailing address and email address.
During the meeting, anyone may speak or submit written comments.
Update your subscrip
tions, modify your password or e-mail address, or stop subscriptions at any time on your Subscriber
Preferences Page
. You can also unsubscribe instantly from this topic if you like. You wil
l need to use your email address to log in to
your subscriber preference page. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please visit
subscriberhelp.govdelivery.com
.
This service is provided to you at no charge by the
City of Kirkland.
This email was sent to
heidi.siegelba[email protected] using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of the City of Kirkland
Washington · 123 Fifth Avenue
· Kirkland, WA 98033 · 425-587-3000
From: Graydon Newman <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, November 03, 2019 1:08 PM
To: Pinto de Bader, Sandra <[email protected]>
Subject: Please Strengthen Seattle’s Tree Ordinance
CAUTION: External Email
Sandra Pinto de Bader,
Seattle’s trees and urban forest are vital to keeping our city healthy and livable. Trees and the
urban forest comprise a vital green infrastructure. Trees reduce air pollution, storm water
runoff and climate impacts like heat island effects, while providing essential habitat for birds
and other wildlife. They are important for the physical and mental health of our residents.
Seattle’s rapid growth and an outdated tree ordinance are reducing these beneficial effects as
trees are removed and not replaced. It is urgent to act now to stop this continued loss of
trees, particularly large mature trees and tree groves. It is important to promote environmental
equity as trees are replaced.
Please update Seattle's Tree Protection Ordinance as recommended in the latest draft by the
Seattle Urban Forestry Commission.
Here are the key provisions that need to be in the updated tree ordinance:
1. Expand the existing Tree Removal and Replacement Permit Program, including 2-week
public notice and posting on-site, as used by the Seattle Department of Transportation
(SDOT) – to cover all Significant Trees (6” and larger diameter at breast height (DBH)) on
private property in all land use zones, both during development and outside development.
2. Require the replacement of all Significant Trees removed with trees that in 25 years will
reach equivalent canopy volume – either on site or pay a replacement fee into a City Tree
Replacement and Preservation Fund. Allow the Fund to also accept fines, donations, grants
and set up easements.
3. Retain current protections for Exceptional Trees and reduce the upper threshold for
Exceptional Trees to 24” DBH, protect tree groves and prohibit Significant Trees being
removed on undeveloped lots.
4. Allow removal of no more than 2 Significant non-Exceptional Trees in 3 years per lot
outside development
5. Establish one citywide database for applying for Tree Removal and Replacement Permits
and to track changes in the tree canopy.
6. Post online all permit requests and permit approvals for public viewing.
7. Expand SDOT’s existing tree service provider’s registration and certification to register all
Tree Service Providers (arborists) working on trees in Seattle.
8. Provide adequate funding in the budget to implement and enforce the updated ordinance.
Graydon Newman
graydon.newman@gmail.com
3166 SW Genesee St
Seattle, Washington 98126
From: David Moehring <dmoehring@consultant.com>
Sent: Sunday, November 03, 2019 4:06 PM
To: Bagshaw, Sally <[email protected]>; Gonzalez, Lorena <Lorena.G[email protected]>;
Pacheco, Abel <Abel.Pacheco@seattle.gov>; O'Brien, Mike <Mike.OBrien@seattle.gov>; Herbold, Lisa
Juarez, Debora <Debora.Juarez@seattle.gov>; Mosqueda, Teresa <Teresa.Mosqueda@seattle.gov>;
DOT_SeattleTrees <Seattle.Trees@seattle.gov>; DOT_LA <DOT_LA@seattle.gov>
Cc: Strauss, Daniel <[email protected]>; Pinto de Bader, Sandra
Subject: Will Seattle try to match Kirkland's Tree Code Amendments ?
CAUTION: External Email
Looking closer, we see that the resolution of the Seattle City Council is a good leap forward -
especially when tree removal is being considered. But what about large and Exceptional tree
retention?
We need only look across the Lake to Kirkland. Please consider attending their program on November
5th.
Here's a quick list of amendments Kirkland is considering that recognizes that an urban area stripped
of mature trees and sufficient space to grow trees does not advance our common cause :
• Limiting tree removals prior to development permit application submittal;
• Tree removal allowances that consider property size;
• A condition rating system for trees required to be retained on development sites;
• Making tree retention decisions early in the short plat/subdivision design process;
• A new Landmark tree designation with a higher level of protection;
• Specific rules on how trees can be retained on development sites.
https://www.kirklandwa.gov/depart/planning/Code_Updates/Projects/Tree_Code_Updates.htm
Kindly, in the interests of local heat islands and natural habitats with increased density,
David Moehring
From: City of Kirkland <kirkland@service.govdelivery.com
>
Subject: Tree Code Amendments Update
CITY OF KIRKLAND UPDATE:
TRE
E CODE AMENDMENTS UPDATE
You are subscribed to the
Tree Code Amendments List-Serv for the City of Kirkland. The Tree Code Amendments
web page
has recently been updated and is now available online.
REMINDER: The Planning Commission and Houghton
Community Council will hold a joint public hearing on Tuesday,
November 5, 2019 at 7:00 pm at City Hall Council Chambers to receive public comment on the proposed amendments
to Kirkland Zoning Code Chapter 95. You are encouraged to attend this hearing to e
xpress your views on proposed
amendments that will affect city
-wide tree removal and tree retention related to development. City staff will be
available to answer questions about the code amendments prior to the hearing from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm in the
Counc
il Chambers lobby.
Written comments may be submitted directly to the Planning Commission and/or Houghton Community Council up to
5:00 pm before the hearing in care of Deb Powers, Urban Forester, Kirkland Planning and Building Department. Please
refer to C
ase No. CAM18-00408 and include your name, mailing address and email address.
During the meeting, anyone may speak or submit written comments.
Update your subscriptions, modify your password or e
-mail address, or stop subscriptions at any time on your Subscriber
Preferences Page
. You can also unsubscribe instantly
from this topic if you like. You will need to use your email address to log in to
your subscriber preference page. If you hav
e questions or problems with the subscription service, please visit
subscriberhelp.govdelivery.com
.
This service is provided to you at no charge by the
City of Kirkland.
This email was sent to
heidi.siegelba[email protected] using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of the City of Kirkland
Washington · 123 Fifth Avenue
· Kirkland, WA 98033 · 425-587-3000
From: Abbie Watts <info@sg.actionnetwork.org>
Sent: Sunday, November 03, 2019 4:28 PM
To: Pinto de Bader, Sandra <[email protected]>
Subject: Protect Seattle's trees please - Seattle’s Tree Ordinance
CAUTION: External Email
Sandra Pinto de Bader,
Trees are vital to our planet and our city. I just finished reading this years Pulitzer prize
winning novel, The Overstory and it's about protecting trees and climate change. Trees fulfill
so many roles and are essential in cityscapes. In Seattle, poor areas don't have trees. That's
sad but more importantly bad for factors as diverse as airquality and human happiness.
Seattle’s trees and urban forest are vital to keeping our city healthy and livable. Trees and the
urban forest comprise a vital green infrastructure. Trees reduce air pollution, storm water
runoff and climate impacts like heat island effects, while providing essential habitat for birds
and other wildlife. They are important for the physical and mental health of our residents.
Seattle’s rapid growth and an outdated tree ordinance are reducing these beneficial effects as
trees are removed and not replaced. It is urgent to act now to stop this continued loss of
trees, particularly large mature trees and tree groves. It is important to promote environmental
equity as trees are replaced.
Please update Seattle's Tree Protection Ordinance as recommended in the latest draft by the
Seattle Urban Forestry Commission.
Here are the key provisions that need to be in the updated tree ordinance:
1. Expand the existing Tree Removal and Replacement Permit Program, including 2-week
public notice and posting on-site, as used by the Seattle Department of Transportation
(SDOT) – to cover all Significant Trees (6” and larger diameter at breast height (DBH)) on
private property in all land use zones, both during development and outside development.
2. Require the replacement of all Significant Trees removed with trees that in 25 years will
reach equivalent canopy volume – either on site or pay a replacement fee into a City Tree
Replacement and Preservation Fund. Allow the Fund to also accept fines, donations, grants
and set up easements.
3. Retain current protections for Exceptional Trees and reduce the upper threshold for
Exceptional Trees to 24” DBH, protect tree groves and prohibit Significant Trees being
removed on undeveloped lots.
4. Allow removal of no more than 2 Significant non-Exceptional Trees in 3 years per lot
outside development
5. Establish one citywide database for applying for Tree Removal and Replacement Permits
and to track changes in the tree canopy.
6. Post online all permit requests and permit approvals for public viewing.
7. Expand SDOT’s existing tree service provider’s registration and certification to register all
Tree Service Providers (arborists) working on trees in Seattle.
8. Provide adequate funding in the budget to implement and enforce the updated ordinance.
Abbie Watts
abigail.kp.watts@gmail.com
413 Garfield St
Seattle, Washington 98109
From: Nicole Corrado <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, November 04, 2019 6:48 AM
To: Pinto de Bader, Sandra <[email protected]>
Subject: Please Strengthen Seattle’s Tree Ordinance
CAUTION: External Email
Sandra Pinto de Bader,
Seattle’s trees and urban forest are vital to keeping our city healthy and livable. Trees and the
urban forest comprise a vital green infrastructure. Trees reduce air pollution, storm water
runoff and climate impacts like heat island effects, while providing essential habitat for birds
and other wildlife. They are important for the physical and mental health of our residents.
Seattle’s rapid growth and an outdated tree ordinance are reducing these beneficial effects as
trees are removed and not replaced. It is urgent to act now to stop this continued loss of
trees, particularly large mature trees and tree groves. It is important to promote environmental
equity as trees are replaced.
Please update Seattle's Tree Protection Ordinance as recommended in the latest draft by the
Seattle Urban Forestry Commission.
Here are the key provisions that need to be in the updated tree ordinance:
1. Expand the existing Tree Removal and Replacement Permit Program, including 2-week
public notice and posting on-site, as used by the Seattle Department of Transportation
(SDOT) – to cover all Significant Trees (6” and larger diameter at breast height (DBH)) on
private property in all land use zones, both during development and outside development.
2. Require the replacement of all Significant Trees removed with trees that in 25 years will
reach equivalent canopy volume – either on site or pay a replacement fee into a City Tree
Replacement and Preservation Fund. Allow the Fund to also accept fines, donations, grants
and set up easements.
3. Retain current protections for Exceptional Trees and reduce the upper threshold for
Exceptional Trees to 24” DBH, protect tree groves and prohibit Significant Trees being
removed on undeveloped lots.
4. Allow removal of no more than 2 Significant non-Exceptional Trees in 3 years per lot
outside development
5. Establish one citywide database for applying for Tree Removal and Replacement Permits
and to track changes in the tree canopy.
6. Post online all permit requests and permit approvals for public viewing.
7. Expand SDOT’s existing tree service provider’s registration and certification to register all
Tree Service Providers (arborists) working on trees in Seattle.
8. Provide adequate funding in the budget to implement and enforce the updated ordinance.
Nicole Corrado
ntcorrado@rogers.com
1 Bluejay Way
Toronto, Ontario M5V 2T6
From: David Moehring <dmoehring@consultant.com>
Sent: Monday, November 04, 2019 8:27 AM
To: Humphries, Paul <Paul.Humphries@seattle.gov>; PRC <PRC@seattle.gov>
Cc: Pinto de Bader, Sandra <[email protected]ov>; Bagshaw, Sally
<Sally.Bagshaw@seattle.gov>; Naomi Zurcher <treerap@sprintmail.com>; Finn Coven, Jessica
<Jessica.FinnCoven@seattle.gov>; Annie Thoe <neighborhoodtreekeepers@gmail.com>; Pederson, Art
<Art.Pederson@seattle.gov>
Subject: Enforcing tree protections at 3406 and 3412 34th
CAUTION: External Email
Mr. Humphries,
Thank you for practicing what SDCI preaches - that being the Department is the ‘steward of Seattle’s
environment’.
Your comments on the townhouses with row houses development* at 3406 and 3412 34th Ave W are
astute relative to the protection of existing Exceptional trees and tree groves. Too often the city
planners do not establish at the onset that designs must work around protected trees.
You have appropriately asked for the retaining existing group of trees at the south end and trees which
primarily grow on the property to the south.
Astonishingly, there is no evidence that a Design has been provided here that considered retaining
exceptional and protected trees. There is plenty of space on this functionally-related site to do so. The
attached pdf from a similar (and smaller) LR1-zoned lot in Ballard demonstrates that architects and
arborists have indeed successful collaborated on retaining nature trees when the Department requires
them to do so.
As the former councilperson Rob Johnson one suggested, Seattle needs to stand up for mature trees
while accommodating increased density.
http://archive.kuow.org/post/seattle-says-no-more-willy-nilly-cutting-down-trees-private-property
The message below is a good testament to why this issue is so important in within Seattle urban
environment.
David Moehring
Magnolia Tree Keepers
TreePAC
* Code note: Seattle prohibits development of land with both Rowhouses and townhouses. SMC
23.84A.032.R(20); yet no one objects to the practice of non-authorized contract rezoning from LR1(M)
to LR2(M1).
Sent: Friday, November 01, 2019 at 2:22 AM
> > From: "Naomi
> > To: "Finn Coven, Jessica" <Jessica.FinnCoven@seattle.gov
>
> > Cc: "David Moehring" <dmoehring@consultant.com>
> > Subject: Re: Keep Seattle Livable!
> > Dear Jessica:
> >
> > Thank you for your summary analysis of Seattle’s Tree Protection.
> >
> > My biggest issue, from what I can see and the number of trees that are being compromised in
various ways, is that not enough is being done to prevent trees from becoming hazard trees in the first
place.
> >
> > Putting a management focus on hazard trees can very easily play into the hands of developers and
agreeable arborists who need the income being offered to evaluate in a certain direction.
> >
> > What is missing here is the planning and site preparation requisite to a tree or trees being planted,
how we select a tree for that site, how we plant it and facilitate its establishment and then how we
protect, preserve and maintain it so that it can actually grow into maturity. There are many proven
strategies which can facilitate GROWING a tree into maturity, all of which cost much less than having to
come along later and deal with the result of all of the requisite parts and pieces either not being done or
being done incorrectly.
> >
> > A sustainable urban forest ecosystem is front loaded in terms of Standards, Procedures and Best
Practices and their resulting costs. But, that investment not only results in a heathy, resilient and viable
urban forest resource, it affords an extraordinary quality of life for all residents as a result of the
enhanced Ecosystem Services such an Urban Forest is able to deliver.
> >
> > That should be the goal of managing the resource, rather than a sole focus on the hazards that, all
too often, bad judgment and grossly inadequate planning, management and protection instigate.
> >
> > Kind regards
> > Naomi
> >
> > On Oct 31, 2019, at 6:45 PM, Finn Coven, Jessica <
<mailto:[email protected]>> wrote:
> >
> > Dear Naomi,
> >
> > Thank you for your email.
> >
> > Over the past couple of years, the City of Seattle has been taking steps to improve tree protection.
> >
> > In 2016, my office partnered up with the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI)
to undertake the Tree Regulations Research Project to assess the effectiveness of the interim tree
protection regulations and get critical data for us to better understand the issues surrounding tree
protection. The project’s final report
<
http://www.seattle.gov/Documents/Departments/UrbanForestryCommission/Resources/Final%20Rep
ort_Tree%20Regulation%20Research%20ProjectPahseII_31MAR2017_final.pdf> provided the basis for
Mayor Burgess’ Executive Order 2017-11
<
http://www.seattle.gov/Documents/Departments/UrbanForestryCommission/2018/2018docs/TreeExe
cOrder2017-11FINAL.pdf> on Tree Protection (EO).
> >
> > The EO directed City departments to implement measures to increase tree protection. Progress on
EO implementation includes:
> > In 2017, SDCI began a series of updates to their website <
http://www.seattle.gov/sdci/codes/codes-
we-enforce-(a-z)/tree-protection-code> including tree protection details and signage specifications to
help educate the public and permit applicants about the value of trees and tree protection regulations.
> > In 2018, SDCI updated Tip 331B - Hazard Tree
<http://www.seattle.gov/DPD/Publications/CAM/cam331b.pdf
>, to more clearly determine what trees
are to be classified as hazardous; and Tip 242 -Tree Protections in Seattle
<
http://www.seattle.gov/DPD/Publications/CAM/cam242.pdf>, to detail the process for evaluating a
tree’s risk and the process of completing and submitting a Hazard Tree Removal Application. SDCI also
adopted Director's Rule 17-2018 <
http://www.seattle.gov/dpd/codes/dr/17-2018%20tree.pdf> -
Calculating Tree Valuations and Civil Penalties for Tree Protection Code Violations
<
http://www.seattle.gov/dpd/codes/dr/17-2018%20tree.pdf>. This new rule clarifies the methodology
of the cost approach used by code enforcement.
> > This year, SDCI hired two arborists to assist in the review of permit applications for tree removal and
enforcement of tree protection violations. SDCI is working with staff from the City’s IT department to
update the online permit system to include a tree tracking mechanism that will better assist staff to
track tree removal and replanting during different stages of development.
> >
> > My office, as part of our role staffing the Urban Forestry Commission (UFC), has worked to facilitate
visits from City Councilmembers Johnson, Bagshaw, and Herbold, to discuss the Commission’s
recommendations for updates to the tree protection ordinance that was brought forward by
Councilmember Johnson in 2018.
> >
> > Earlier this year, City Council expressed their commitment to protect our urban trees as our city
continues to grow by adopting a companion resolution (Resolution 3870
<
http://clerk.seattle.gov/search/results?s6=mandatory+housing+affordability&l=200&Sect1=IMAGE&Se
ct2=THESON&Sect3=PLURON&Sect4=AND&Sect5=RESNY&Sect6=HITOFF&d=RESF&p=1&u=%2Fsearch%
2Fresolutions&r=1&f=G> – Section 6) to the Mandatory House Affordability legislation. The resolution is
in alignment with UFC recommendations.
> >
> > The Mayor and Council are currently working with the UFC on a timeline to continue this work and
produce legislation to update current tree regulations.
> >
> > Thank you again for reaching out.
> >
> > Sincerely,
> > Jessica Finn Coven, Director
> > Seattle Office of Sustainability & Environment
> >
> >
> > From: Naomi Zurcher <in[email protected]onnetwork.org
> > <mailto:[email protected]
>>
> > Sent: Saturday, October 05, 2019 6:40 AM
> > To: Finn Coven, Jessica <Jessica.FinnCoven@seattle.gov
> > <mailto:[email protected]
>>
> > Subject: Keep Seattle Livable!
> >
> > CAUTION: External Email
> > OSE Director Jessica Finn Coven,
> >
> > As an Urban Forester and a Consulting Arborist, I am concerned with the well-being of the public's
trees, regardless of where they are - all trees matter.
> >
> > It has come to my attention that although Seattle has a Tree Protection Ordinance in place, the
public's urban trees are being decimated through a lack of enforcement combined with inadequate Best
Management Practices and development that does not respect the existing tree resource.
> >
> > None of this is acceptable and all of it is avoidable and preventable.
> >
> > Seattle’s Urban Forest is comprised of trees and and all their associates including human residents,
living together in the built environment. Seattle's trees are vital to keeping our city healthy and livable.
Trees reduce air pollution, storm water runoff and climate impacts like heat island effects, while
providing essential habitat for birds and other wildlife. They are important for the physical and mental
health of our residents.
> >
> > BUT, trees can only provide these critical services IF their needs are respected and accommodated.
> >
> > Seattle’s rapid growth and an outdated tree ordinance are reducing these beneficial effects as trees
are not protected during development and are removed and not replaced. It is urgent to act now to stop
this continued loss of trees, particularly large mature trees and tree groves. It is important to promote
environmental equity as trees are replaced.
> >
> > Please update Seattle's Tree Protection Ordinance as recommended in the latest draft by the Seattle
Urban Forestry Commission.
> > Here are the key provisions that need to be in the updated tree ordinance:
> >
> > 1. Expand the existing Tree Removal and Replacement Permit Program, including 2-week public
notice and posting on-site, as used by the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) – to cover all
Significant Trees (6” and larger diameter at breast height (DBH)) on private property in all land use
zones, both during development and outside development.
> > 2. Require the replacement of all Significant Trees removed with trees that in 25 years will reach
equivalent canopy volume – either on site or pay a replacement fee into a City Tree Replacement and
Preservation Fund. Allow the Fund to also accept fines, donations, grants and set up easements.
> > 3. Retain current protections for Exceptional Trees and reduce the upper threshold for Exceptional
Trees to 24” DBH, protect tree groves and prohibit Significant Trees being removed on undeveloped lots.
> > 4. Allow removal of no more than 2 Significant non-Exceptional Trees
> > in 3 years per lot outside development 5. Establish one citywide database for applying for Tree
Removal and Replacement Permits and to track changes in the tree canopy.
> > 6. Post online all permit requests and permit approvals for public viewing.
> > 7. Expand SDOT’s existing tree service provider’s registration and certification to register all Tree
Service Providers (arborists) working on trees in Seattle.
> > 8. Provide adequate funding in the budget to implement and enforce the updated ordinance.
> >
> > Naomi Zurcher
> > [email protected]m <mailto:[email protected]
>
> > 161 Columbia Hts
> > Brooklyn, 11201-2154
> >
> >
From: Christie Cave <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, November 04, 2019 12:12 PM
To: Pinto de Bader, Sandra <[email protected]>
Subject: Save our Trees!
CAUTION: External Email
Sandra Pinto de Bader,
Seattle’s trees and urban forest are vital to keeping our city healthy and livable. Trees and the
urban forest comprise a vital green infrastructure. Trees reduce air pollution, storm water
runoff and climate impacts like heat island effects, while providing essential habitat for birds
and other wildlife. They are important for the physical and mental health of our residents.
Seattle’s rapid growth and an outdated tree ordinance are reducing these beneficial effects as
trees are removed and not replaced. It is urgent to act now to stop this continued loss of
trees, particularly large mature trees and tree groves. It is important to promote environmental
equity as trees are replaced.
Please update Seattle's Tree Protection Ordinance as recommended in the latest draft by the
Seattle Urban Forestry Commission.
Here are the key provisions that need to be in the updated tree ordinance:
1. Expand the existing Tree Removal and Replacement Permit Program, including 2-week
public notice and posting on-site, as used by the Seattle Department of Transportation
(SDOT) – to cover all Significant Trees (6” and larger diameter at breast height (DBH)) on
private property in all land use zones, both during development and outside development.
2. Require the replacement of all Significant trees removed with trees that in 25 years will
reach equivalent canopy volume – either on site or pay a replacement fee into a City Tree
Replacement and Preservation Fund. Allow the Fund to also accept fines, donations, grants
and set up easements.
3. Retain current protections for Exceptional Trees and reduce the upper threshold for
Exceptional Trees to 24” DBH, protect tree groves and prohibit Significant Trees being
removed on undeveloped lots.
4. Allow removal of no more than 2 Significant non-Exceptional Trees in 3 years per lot
outside development
5. Establish one citywide database for applying for Tree Removal and Replacement Permits
and to track changes in the tree canopy.
6. Post online all permit requests and permit approvals for public viewing.
7. Expand SDOT’s existing tree service provider’s registration and certification to register all
Tree Service Providers (arborists) working on trees in Seattle.
8. Provide adequate funding in the budget to implement and enforce the updated ordinance.
Christie Cave
cmcave@aol.com
735 N 72nd
Seattle, Washington 98103
From: David Moehring <dmoehring@consultant.com>
Sent: Monday, November 04, 2019 5:03 PM
To: Bagshaw, Sally <[email protected]>; Herbold, Lisa <[email protected]>; Sawant,
Kshama <Kshama.Sawant@seattle.gov>; Gonzalez, Lorena <Lorena.Gonzalez@seattle.gov>; O'Brien,
Mike <Mike.OBrien@seattle.gov>; Pacheco, Abel <Abel.Pacheco@seattle.gov>; Mosqueda, Teresa
<Teresa.Mosqueda@seattle.gov>
Cc: Steve Zemke <stevezemke@msn.com>; Pinto de Bader, Sandra
<Sandra.Pinto_de_Bader@Seattle.gov>; Strauss, Daniel <Daniel.Strauss@seattle.gov>
Subject: Hazard tree director rule
CAUTION: External Email
A better tree protection ordinance is needed in Seattle.
City Arborist or Building Inspectors evaluations of violations in tree cuttings:
A March 27, 2017 tree regulation report "Tree Regulations Research Project - Phase II"
have revealed (chart below, spreadsheet and chart attached) that there are significantly
more reporting of violations, yet the number of violations remains low. In 2015, of the
158 reports on tree cuttings, only 32 (or 25%) were considered to be violations. Most
of the prior years were about 50% in violation. [This information chart and excel
spreadsheet with address locations was recently made available from a public records
request.]
This attached May 12, 2011 "Tip 242 - Tree Protection Regulations in Seattle"
document needs to be updated.
Updates are needed for 'Developed Land' on page 2 to enact better tree
protections:
"...limited in all lowrise, midrise, and commercial zones and on single-family lots 5,000
square feet in area or larger..."
(is this now "lots 4,000 square feet in area or larger"?)
"No more than three non-exceptional trees six inches in diameter or greater may be
removed on a lot in any one-year period."
"No permits are required for removal of trees within these limits."
Clarification is needed for HAZARD TREES on page 2:
"Hazard trees are trees designated by a qualified professional that have a combination
of structural defects and/or disease which makes it subject to a high probability of
failure and are located near potential targets." "If a hazard tree is located in an
environmentally critical area, replanting will also be required for removal of a hazard
tree."
More and more reports are indicating a tree will likely fall on a potential target AFTER a
nearby building is demolished or a foundation for a new building is excavated. A healthy
tree becoming a hazard after excavating around it? That is reverse thinking, isn't it?
Increased enforcement is needed for "Tree Protection during Development" on
page 2:
How often are departures enforced (reduced setbacks, reduced on-site parking,
increased height)?
"In general, exceptional trees must be retained unless doing so would prevent a project
from meeting the development
potential of the zone even after available departures from development standards are
considered."
and on page 3: "Protection of other non-exceptional trees over two feet in diameter is
optional, but encouraged."
David Moehring
312-965-0634
Sent: Monday, December 03, 2018 at 1:26 PM
From: "David Moehring" <dmoehring@consultant.com
>
Cc: "seattle-tree-ordinance-working-group@lists.riseup.net" <seattle-tree-ordinance-working-
group@lists.riseup.net>
Subject: Hazard tree director rule
FYI -SDCI updated Tip 331B, Hazard Trees, was updated to correct the application process.
Date Revised: 11/06/2018
Removal of a hazard tree is allowed in environmentally critical areas (ECAs) when an applicant
demonstrates a significant risk exists. This Tip details the process for assessing whether a hazard
exists and submitting a Hazard Tree Removal Application.
http://web6.seattle.gov/DPD/CAMS/CamDetail.aspx?cn=331B
Also See Tip 331, ECAs: Tree and Vegetation Overview, for more general information about trees in
ECAs.
From: Kelliann Lafferty <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, November 04, 2019 9:08 PM
To: Pinto de Bader, Sandra <[email protected]>
Subject: Please Protect Seattle’s Trees
CAUTION: External Email
Sandra Pinto de Bader,
Seattle’s trees and urban forest are vital to keeping our city healthy and livable. Trees and the
urban forest comprise a vital green infrastructure. Trees reduce air pollution, storm water
runoff and climate impacts like heat island effects, while providing essential habitat for birds
and other wildlife. They are important for the physical and mental health of our residents.
Seattle’s rapid growth and an outdated tree ordinance are reducing these beneficial effects as
trees are removed and not replaced. It is urgent to act now to stop this continued loss of
trees, particularly large mature trees and tree groves. It is important to promote environmental
equity as trees are replaced.
Please update Seattle's Tree Protection Ordinance as recommended in the latest draft by the
Seattle Urban Forestry Commission.
Here are the key provisions that need to be in the updated tree ordinance:
1. Expand the existing Tree Removal and Replacement Permit Program, including 2-week
public notice and posting on-site, as used by the Seattle Department of Transportation
(SDOT) – to cover all Significant Trees (6” and larger diameter at breast height (DBH)) on
private property in all land use zones, both during development and outside development.
2. Require the replacement of all Significant Trees removed with trees that in 25 years will
reach equivalent canopy volume – either on site or pay a replacement fee into a City Tree
Replacement and Preservation Fund. Allow the Fund to also accept fines, donations, grants
and set up easements.
3. Retain current protections for Exceptional Trees and reduce the upper threshold for
Exceptional Trees to 24” DBH, protect tree groves and prohibit Significant Trees being
removed on undeveloped lots.
4. Allow removal of no more than 2 Significant non-Exceptional Trees in 3 years per lot
outside development
5. Establish one citywide database for applying for Tree Removal and Replacement Permits
and to track changes in the tree canopy.
6. Post online all permit requests and permit approvals for public viewing.
7. Expand SDOT’s existing tree service provider’s registration and certification to register all
Tree Service Providers (arborists) working on trees in Seattle.
8. Provide adequate funding in the budget to implement and enforce the updated ordinance.
Kelliann Lafferty
kell10192@gmail.com
5508 22nd Ave NW, 5
Seattle, Washington 98107
From: David Moehring <dmoehring@consultant.com>
Sent: Tuesday, November 05, 2019 7:51 AM
To: Houston, Michael <Mich[email protected]>
Cc: PRC <PRC@seattle.gov>; Torgelson, Nathan <Nathan.Torgelson@seattle.gov>; Pinto de Bader,
Sandra <Sandra.Pinto_de_Bader@Seattle.gov>; mbeutjer@msn.com
Subject: Tree grove removal at City of Seattle DCI Notice #3033703-LU - November 4, 2019
CAUTION: External Email
Please provide the arborist report for 3452 14th Ave W 3033703-LU.
There does not appear to be any report on the Electronic Document Management System. This
development site has apparently not been considered for protected trees and the protected tree grove
per SMC 25.11.
There is no record of consolidating the allowed FAR into one building rather than 4 separate dwellings.
There is no record of design compromises in terms of setbacks and heights to retain existing trees.
David Moehring
3444B 23rd ave W
Sent using the mail.com mail app
Forwarded email
> From: "Gonzales Cunneutubby, Reta" <Reta.Gonzales@Seattle.Gov
>
> Date: November 4, 2019 at 9:03 AM
> To: "Gonzales Cunneutubby, Reta" <Reta.Gonzales@Seattle.Gov
>
> Subject: City of Seattle DCI Notice #3033703-LU - November 4, 2019
>
> Please see attached Notice published on November 4, 2019.
>
> DO NOT REPLY TO THIS MESSAGE.
>
> Please contact the planner listed on the attached notice, for any issues, questions, or comments
regarding this project.
>
> This notice is being sent as you are: an applicant; a board member; a SEPA agency; or a party of record
(you attended and signed in at a meeting or emailed/mailed in comments) for this project.
>
> Thanks,
> [cid:image001.png@01D2DF73.141B6B20
]
> City of Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections<http://www.seattle.gov/sdci/>
> Public Resource Center
> 700 Fifth Avenue, Suite 2000
> PO Box 34019, Seattle, WA 98124-4019
> PRC@seattle.gov<mailto:PRC@seattle.gov
>
>
[cid:image002.png@01D2DF73.141B6B20]<https://www.facebook.com/seattledci>[
cid:image003.png@
01D2DF73.141B6B20]<https://twitter.com/seattledci>[cid:image004.png@01D2DF73.141B6B20]<http:/
/buildingconnections.seattle.gov/>
>
> "As stewards and regulators of land and buildings, we preserve and enhance the----
From: Bard Horton <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, November 05, 2019 6:17 PM
To: Pinto de Bader, Sandra <[email protected]>
Subject: Save Our Trees!
CAUTION: External Email
Sandra Pinto de Bader,
Seattle’s trees and urban forest are vital to keeping our city healthy and livable. Trees and the
urban forest comprise a vital green infrastructure. Trees reduce air pollution, storm water
runoff and climate impacts like heat island effects, while providing essential habitat for birds
and other wildlife. They are important for the physical and mental health of our residents.
Seattle’s rapid growth and an outdated tree ordinance are reducing these beneficial effects as
trees are removed and not replaced. It is urgent to act now to stop this continued loss of
trees, particularly large mature trees and tree groves. It is important to promote environmental
equity as trees are replaced.
Please update Seattle's Tree Protection Ordinance as recommended in the latest draft by the
Seattle Urban Forestry Commission.
Here are the key provisions that need to be in the updated tree ordinance:
1. Expand the existing Tree Removal and Replacement Permit Program, including 2-week
public notice and posting on-site, as used by the Seattle Department of Transportation
(SDOT) – to cover all Significant Trees (6” and larger diameter at breast height (DBH)) on
private property in all land use zones, both during development and outside development.
2. Require the replacement of all Significant trees removed with trees that in 25 years will
reach equivalent canopy volume – either on site or pay a replacement fee into a City Tree
Replacement and Preservation Fund. Allow the Fund to also accept fines, donations, grants
and set up easements.
3. Retain current protections for Exceptional Trees and reduce the upper threshold for
Exceptional Trees to 24” DBH, protect tree groves and prohibit Significant Trees being
removed on undeveloped lots.
4. Allow removal of no more than 2 Significant non-Exceptional Trees in 3 years per lot
outside development
5. Establish one citywide database for applying for Tree Removal and Replacement Permits
and to track changes in the tree canopy.
6. Post online all permit requests and permit approvals for public viewing.
7. Expand SDOT’s existing tree service provider’s registration and certification to register all
Tree Service Providers (arborists) working on trees in Seattle.
8. Provide adequate funding in the budget to implement and enforce the updated ordinance.
Bard Horton
bardjess@msn.com
328 N 71st St
Seattle, Washington 98103
From: Kawamura, Jon <J[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, November 07, 2019 10:45 AM
To: Pinto de Bader, Sandra <[email protected]>
Subject: RE: Exceptional Tree Experience
Thanks Sandra,
Sorry about it being 2 pages, I tried to keep it short. We really appreciate you taking the time to read
about our experience and hope it somehow gives you a little more information about a homeowners
perspective on the exceptional tree law.
- Jon
From: Pinto de Bader, Sandra <[email protected]ov
>
Sent: Thursday, November 07, 2019 10:37 AM
To: Kawamura, Jon <
Jon.Kawamura@seattle.gov>
Subject: RE: Exceptional Tree Experience
Hi Jon,
I staff the Urban Forestry Commission, so, feel free to send me anything you’d like to share with them.
Thanks,
Sandra Pinto de Bader
She/her/hers
Urban Forestry Commission Coordinator
City of Seattle, Office of Sustainability & Environment
206.684.3194 | Sandra.Pinto_de_Bader@seattle.gov
Facebook | Twitter | Blog
FAQS | BLOG
From: Kawamura, Jon <Jon.Kawamura@seattle.gov
>
Sent: Thursday, November 07, 2019 10:06 AM
To: Pinto de Bader, Sandra <
Sandra.Pinto_de_Bader@Seattle.gov>
Subject: Exceptional Tree Experience
Sandra,
I have been in communication concerning our experience with the current Exceptional Tree laws with
Chandra Emery (Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections) and Art Peterson who is an
arborist working in the same group. Art strongly recommended that we share our experiences with the
Exceptional Tree laws with the Urban Forestry Commission and City Council. Do you have a contact I
could send our story to?
Thanks,
- Jon
Jon and Nora
3669 Interlake Ave N.
Seattle, WA 98103
I am writing to share our experiences as the owners of a single-family home getting
ready to sell our house with what has been labeled as an exceptional tree in our
backyard. We are hoping that you take our experience with the exceptional tree laws
into consideration if the current laws are under discussion for change.
I’d like to give you a little background information on our experience with developers,
the cities rezoning to promote greater density on our bloc and the exceptional tree law.
Last year I made the decision to plan on retiring from the City of Seattle (early 2020) so
we could move back home to take care of our parents (92, 94 years old). Our neighbors
had similar issues and had decided to move as well. Both of our lots are adjacent (3669,
3665) with similar trees. The developer agreed to buy each of our lots for 1.2 million.
Even though my neighbor had more tree coverage, the diameter or species of our tree
was deemed to be exceptional by an arborist, so the developer terminated our
agreement stating that they didn’t want to absorb the risk of investing time going
through the city design processes.
Once our 1.2 million agreement was terminated, we were willing to try and work around
the tree, so we entered another agreement at 1.05 million ($150,000 less) with a
developer who had a site plan design keeping the tree in place. The tree ended up
eliminating an additional unit which made the design financially less desirable, so the
developer decided to terminate the deal after a 3-month feasibility period. Now we are
faced with trying to sell the house as a private residence with the next-door neighbor’s
house and the house across the street being torn down (might be tough, not many
single-family houses remain on block). We are being quoted a price of $850k to 900k for
a private sale which is $300k - $350k less than we would have received initially without
the tree.
We did do our due diligence in pursuing options where we kept the tree and were even
willing to take $150k less. One of the problems is that the market in Seattle is in a slight
downturn so developers need all the square footage to reduce risk, the rezoning also is
a factor. Our street was zoned for high density housing.
Observations:
• With such a huge difference in property value due to the exceptional tree, it
would make sense for most homeowners to just cut the tree down and face any
fine especially if their life circumstances put them in a tough situation. But why
make the City of Seattle and the homeowners’ adversaries?
• Comparing our lot with our neighbors, cutting down their trees would have a
greater environmental impact, but diameter/species rule of a single tree on our lot
was the determining factor in our house sale as it was tagged as exceptional.
This really is saying that the environmental impact of clearing trees is not as
important as an arbitrary ruling based on diameter size and species.
• A house down the street was just torn down and they posted a sign saying that
several exceptional trees were taken down. All this is confusing to us because in
one case more tree coverage was allowed to be taken down and in the other
case several exceptional trees were allowed to be removed. There might be
some rule that justified the removal of these trees, but it is confusing to the
homeowner.
• Our tree isn’t native to the area and was planted by the previous owner of the
house. This is not an issue of deforesting; it is an issue of removing a tree that
was planted by the homeowner on their own land.
• The way the exceptional tree is written now, if the homeowner makes the mistake
of planting a certain species of tree and lets it grow to a certain diameter then the
city takes control of the tree but not of any of the ownership maintenance costs
and risk. Our tree has had 2 of the 3 main canopy branches break off and land
on our deck and carport over the years. The city exceptional tree rule is basically
saying that once the tree grows to a certain diameter, control of the tree is
handed over to the city, but the city will not absorb any of the maintenance costs
or hazardous risks. The arborist can recommend trimming but that incurs cost
and doesn’t guarantee safety.
Recommendations to revise exceptional tree laws.
The current exceptional tree law appears to have a hard threshold based on
species/diameter. This only encourages homeowners to cut their trees down before
they reach the threshold or illegally cut the trees down if the financial impact is large
enough. The homeowners negatively impacted by the rule are the ones that didn’t know
the rule existed. Depending on ignorance of a rule isn’t a good way to govern an
initiative. It would make more sense to apply a sliding scale cost of removing all trees
based on diameter. For instance, removal of a medium size tree would incur a $2000
fee, a large tree might cost $10000. Having a lower cost scale for high density zoning
should also be considered. This type of tree removal enforcement would have the
advantages:
1. The revenue generated from tree removal fees could then fund replanting
initiatives.
2. Homeowners would be less apt to become adversaries of the city and illegally cut
down exceptional trees.
3. The city would not be liable or responsible for maintaining trees they claim as
exceptional.
4. The tree removal policy would be straightforward and easy for homeowners,
developers and neighbors to understand.
If there are no changes to the current exceptional tree laws I do think there should be
and appeal process for exception tree exemptions in cases where there is severe
financial impact and the homeowner has done their due diligence to pursue design
options keeping the tree.
Thanks your consideration,
Jon Kawamura
E-Mail: Jon.Kawamura@Seattle.Gov
Phone: (206) 310-9984
From: Charna Klein <info@sg.actionnetwork.org>
Sent: Thursday, November 07, 2019 9:10 AM
To: Pinto de Bader, Sandra <[email protected]>
Subject: Keep Seattle Livable!
CAUTION: External Email
Sandra Pinto de Bader,
Seattle’s trees and urban forest are vital to keeping our city healthy and livable. Trees and the
urban forest comprise a vital green infrastructure. Trees reduce air pollution, storm water
runoff and climate impacts like heat island effects, while providing essential habitat for birds
and other wildlife. They are important for the physical and mental health of our residents.
Seattle’s rapid growth and an outdated tree ordinance are reducing these beneficial effects as
trees are removed and not replaced. It is urgent to act now to stop this continued loss of
trees, particularly large mature trees and tree groves. It is important to promote environmental
equity as trees are replaced.
Please update Seattle's Tree Protection Ordinance as recommended in the latest draft by the
Seattle Urban Forestry Commission.
Here are the key provisions that need to be in the updated tree ordinance:
1. Expand the existing Tree Removal and Replacement Permit Program, including 2-week
public notice and posting on-site, as used by the Seattle Department of Transportation
(SDOT) – to cover all Significant Trees (6” and larger diameter at breast height (DBH)) on
private property in all land use zones, both during development and outside development.
2. Require the replacement of all Significant Trees removed with trees that in 25 years will
reach equivalent canopy volume – either on site or pay a replacement fee into a City Tree
Replacement and Preservation Fund. Allow the Fund to also accept fines, donations, grants
and set up easements.
3. Retain current protections for Exceptional Trees and reduce the upper threshold for
Exceptional Trees to 24” DBH, protect tree groves and prohibit Significant Trees being
removed on undeveloped lots.
4. Allow removal of no more than 2 Significant non-Exceptional Trees in 3 years per lot
outside development
5. Establish one citywide database for applying for Tree Removal and Replacement Permits
and to track changes in the tree canopy.
6. Post online all permit requests and permit approvals for public viewing.
7. Expand SDOT’s existing tree service provider’s registration and certification to register all
Tree Service Providers (arborists) working on trees in Seattle.
8. Provide adequate funding in the budget to implement and enforce the updated ordinance.
Charna Klein
charnaklein@msn.com
6521 36 Ave NE
Seattle , Washington 98115
