Burien City Council Adopts Tree Code Amendments

The Burien City Council's recent adoption of new tree regulations reflects a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and urban forestry. Effective October 12, 2022, these regulations require property owners to obtain permits for removing exceptional trees, which are defined as unusually large for their species, as well as for removing more than one tree in a calendar year. Additionally, properties must meet minimum tree credit densities based on lot size, ensuring a consistent presence of trees across residential areas. The city has introduced fines for illegal tree removal, which will range from $700 to $15,000, allowing for an initial educational phase before penalties are applied. Notably, the regulations also apply to tree removal in shorelines and critical areas, reinforcing the city’s commitment to protecting sensitive ecosystems.

By emphasizing the protection of large and healthy trees during construction and requiring replacements for removed trees, Burien is taking proactive steps towards ecological preservation. This initiative aligns with the City of Burien’s Comprehensive Plan, Climate Action Plan, and the Green Burien Urban Forest Stewardship Plan. Such comprehensive regulations not only aim to enhance the urban landscape but also foster community awareness regarding the importance of tree preservation.