Street trees have special status in the city and cannot be planted, pruned, or removed without a permit. A street tree is defined as any tree planted on public right-of-way, usually in the strip of grass between the sidewalk and curb. When there is no curb or sidewalk, street tree classification is determined by the boundary between the street right-of-way and the private property line.

We want to make sure you do street tree work safely and correctly while keeping our tree inventory up to date.

When do you need a tree permit?

You need a permit before planting a tree in order to ensure you are planting the correct species. You can avoid many sidewalk damage, tree health, and utility line problems by following the “right tree, right place” philosophy. Homeowners planting trees can also receive a guide to proper tree care. 

You need a permit before pruning a tree with limbs larger than 1" on Class I (small) trees and limbs larger than 2" on any larger trees. 

You need a permit before removing any qualified street tree.  Inspection by the Municipal Arborist will determine if the following requirements are met:

• The street tree in question is dead, diseased, hazardous, or otherwise inappropriate.
• The workmanship and methods proposed for removal are satisfactory.
• Replacement of the street tree is assured unless the Municipal Arborist determines replacement is not appropriate.

No fee is charged for obtaining a tree permit.

How do you apply for a permit?

You can download and print the permit form below, fill it out and send it to the Parks and Recreation Department or stop by our office at 55 E Moore Street.

How long will it take to hear back regarding your permit?

Once a permit application is received, it will be given to the Municipal Arborist.  The Municipal Arborist will process all applications by the last Tuesday of the month unless the tree is believed to be hazardous.  Permits are presented to the Parks and Recreation, Urban Forestry Advisory Board on the first Monday (excluding holidays) of every month for final approval/denial.  Once a permit is approved/denied you will receive notification via email or mail.

Who can remove or prune your trees?

Companies approved by the City of Walla Walla as Tree Care Specialist can perform work in the Right-Of-Way.  Here is a list of approved Tree Care Specialists:

• Boyd's Tree Service - 509.585.4194
• Mountain View Tree Service, LLC - 509.522.8255
• Rudy's Tree Service - 509.518.4780
• Senske Lawn & Tree Care - 509.374.5010
• Top Tree Service - 509.943.7032
• Town & Country Tree Service - 509.525.3231
• Wind Works, Inc. - 509.386.2151
• Woodsaver Milling - 509.520.1959

What kind of tree can you plant?

An approved tree permit will identify which class of tree is allowed to be planted in the public right-of-way for that permit.  If a tree is removed a replacement tree is required.

Street Trees You Can Plant

Tree classes

• CLASS I – SMALL TREES  Heights up to 25’, for planting strips 3’ to 5’ wide.
• CLASS II – MEDIUM TREES  Heights from 25’ - 50’, for planting strips 5’ to 8’ wide without overhead power lines.
• CLASS III – LARGE TREES  Heights from 50’ - 70’, for planting strips 8’ to 15’ wide.
• CLASS IV – VERY LARGE TREES  Heights from 70’ or more ,for planting strips 15’ wide or more without overhead power lines.

For questions regarding tree permits, please contact the Parks and Recreation office at 509.527.4527