# Street Tree Planting Permit

> Request a street tree from Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) Urban Forestry (City) for Seattle, WA, United States.

Official page: https://www.seattle.gov/trees/planting-and-care/street-trees
Source: https://treerm.org/residents/programs/sdot-street-tree-planting-permit-seattle · Updated 2026-11-08 · Status: Open

**What you get:** Free permit and arborist site visit to plant a tree in the planting strip next to your property

SDOT manages Seattle's street trees and issues free permits to plant a tree in the planting strip between the sidewalk and curb. An SDOT arborist inspects the proposed spot and decides whether a tree is suitable; after approval you plant the tree and take on its care. Residents who want a free street tree can instead choose the street tree option in the Trees for Neighborhoods application each July, and the program handles the permit.

## Who qualifies

Any Seattle planting strip at least 4 feet wide that meets SDOT spacing rules (for example 30 feet from intersections, 20 feet from street lights and other trees, 7.5 feet from driveways). Sites under overhead power lines need a tree that stays under 25 feet at maturity. Fruit trees, big leaf maples, cottonwoods, and Lombardy poplars are prohibited.

## How to apply

Submit the SDOT urban forestry permit application (Permit Use Code 1A) to sdotpermits@seattle.gov or through the Seattle Services Portal; the permit is free. Mark the spot, call 811 to locate underground utilities, and request an arborist inspection. Questions: (206) 684-TREE (8733) or Seattle.Trees@seattle.gov.

**When:** Year-round permits; the city recommends fall planting and starting to plan in spring

**For:** Homeowners, Renters, Businesses

> Note: The permit is free but the resident supplies and plants the tree. The page does not describe a city-planted street tree request service; free street trees come through Trees for Neighborhoods.