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Redmond staff outline tree-code overhaul, including tree-protection zones and replacement standards
Summary
Staff presented an update to the tree-code rewrite, saying the code will be modernized to align with Redmond 2050 and state growth requirements. Key proposed changes include updated definitions (ANSI alignment), tree protection zones (TPZ), a 1:1 replacement ratio for hazardous landmark trees, strengthened enforcement, programmatic permitting, and expanded outreach via a Let's Connect questionnaire through July 31.
City planning staff presented the status of a multi-month rewrite of Redmond's tree regulations, which were last comprehensively updated in 1998. Planning director Carol Holland said the update is intended to align the zoning code with the Redmond 2050 comprehensive plan and to provide clearer, more usable standards for retention, replacement, and enforcement.
Senior planner Lauren Anderson and senior park planner Cameron Zapata summarized the approach and community feedback. Staff highlighted a set of technical changes: revised definitions in Section 21.78 (with suggested alignment to ANSI A300 guidance), introduction of a consistent Tree Protection Zone (TPZ) to protect root zones during construction, programmatic permitting options for city projects, strengthened enforcement provisions and clearer fee-in-lieu guidance, and a 1:1 replacement ratio for hazardous landmark and heritage trees. Staff said a second public draft would be released in the coming days, the planning commission review will continue July–December, and council review and adoption is anticipated January–March 2027.
