Community Development's Role
The Department of Community Development (DCD) manages timber harvest permit issuance and provides Kitsap County Code compliance oversight for specific timber harvest and tree removal within Kitsap County. DCD processes Class 4 General Permits, e.g., Site Evaluation Permits and Timber Harvest permits.
The Department of National Resources (DNR) will continue processing Classes 2 & 3 permits.
Please visit DNR online for more information at Forest Practices | WA - DNR.
DOES ALL TREE REMOVAL REQUIRE A PERMIT?
A permit is not required if your tree removal project meets ALL of the following conditions. It is best to consult with Community Development before removing the trees - even if you believe they meet all the criteria below - to avoid unauthorized removal and possible fines.
- There are no critical areas; including Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas;
- The trees are not required plat or short plat perimeter buffer trees;
- The trees are near a residence (within one tree length and one-half);
- Tree removal is for less than 5,000 board feet of timber;
- A licensed, bonded, and insured tree service will remove the trees as non-merchantable pieces.
- Stumps are retained, and no grading or earthwork is proposed.
KITSAP COUNTY PERMIT TYPES
- Danger Tree
- Danger Tree Harvest
- View Enhancement - Thinning or Topping
Timber Harvest
- Minor is tree clearing of 5 acres or less, tree clearing for a Single Family Residence (SFR) on one tax account number with no critical areas.
- Major is tree clearing of more than 5 acres, large scale commercial timber operations, properties with critical areas (including clearing for an SFR).
HOW DO I OBTAIN MY PERMIT?
The first step in obtaining your tree removal permit is to review the above permit types and select the option that describes your tree removal scenario. Once you've determined your scenario and permit type, access the Permit Application Portal through our
Prepare, Apply, Manage page under Apply.
WHAT IF I NEED TO CLEAR A PROPERTY OR LEARN ABOUT MORATORIUMS?
