Do I need a permit to cut down a tree?

With trees being cut down in several areas of Point Roberts recently, including trees planted with taxpayer money along Tyee Drive, residents may be wondering when a permit is required to remove a tree. It is the homeowner's responsibility to obtain the permit, not the arborist or tree service doing the work.
Removing a tree without a required permit can result in consequences for the property owner, so residents should know the rules before cutting. The permit requirements are intended to help protect tree canopy, including the forests that are an important part of what makes Point Roberts a unique and desirable place to live for both humans and wildlife.
Whatcom County requires a Tree Removal Permit for the removal of a “Significant Tree” when the removal is not associated with a development project. A significant tree is an evergreen tree measuring at least 12 inches in diameter at breast height, or a deciduous tree measuring at least eight inches in diameter at breast height. The measurement is taken four and a half feet above the ground.
The permit requirement applies to tree removal for purposes such as creating additional open space, improving a view or obtaining firewood. There are exemptions, including certain removals of hazardous trees that imminently threaten people, structures, improvements or required access. However, a permit may still be required for a hazardous tree.
Different rules apply when tree removal is part of a development project, such as construction of a home, addition, driveway, deck or accessory building.
Additional permits or requirements may also apply to properties in shoreline areas or critical areas and their buffers.
Residents planning to remove a tree should check the county requirements before cutting it down. The county's Tree Removal webpage, whatcomcounty.us/2481/Tree-Removal, provides information about the rules and the Tree Removal Permit application.