New interim regulations to protect trees in Seattle would close a loophole used by developers to take down trees before applying for a development permit.
The proposed interim regulations will be transmitted to City Council for review and would stay in place until permanent tree protection regulations are adopted.
There are currently few limits on tree cutting for most developed sites in Seattle other than in environmentally critical areas. This proposal would restrict tree cutting prior to development on single-family zoned lots of more than 10,000 square feet, as well as all low-rise and mid-rise multifamily and commercially zoned property. The additional regulations in these zones would:
_ Expand the definition of exceptional trees to include more trees with substantial canopy as well as groves of trees. Currently an exceptional tree is defined as having unique historical, ecological, or aesthetic value and is an important community resource.
_ Prohibit the removal of all exceptional trees unless associated with a corresponding development permit.
_ Prohibit the removal of more than three non-exceptional trees, 12 inches or greater in diameter, in one year when not associated with a corresponding development permit.
_ Increase penalties for willful or malicious violations of tree protection regulations.
The city published its State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) determination today and the ordinance will be transmitted to the City Council this month.
The Department of Planning and Development is also developing additional new regulations and will make them available for public review early next year.
To read the Urban Forest Management Plan and to learn about what you can do to help grow Seattle's urban forest, visit Seattle reLeaf: www.seattle.gov/trees/.
For more information about both interim and permanent improvements in Seattle's tree protection regulations, visit: www.seattle.gov/dpd/Planning/SeattlesTreeRegulationUpdate/Overview/.
Visit the mayor's Web site at www.seattle.gov/mayor. Get the mayor's inside view on efforts to promote transportation, public safety, economic opportunity and healthy communities by signing up for The Nickels Newsletter at www.seattle.gov/mayor/newsletter_signup.htm.
