About Redmond's Tree Regulations

Redmond regulates removal of significant trees and landmark trees. A significant tree is defined as any healthy tree six inches in diameter at breast height (d.b.h.), or any tree four inches in diameter at breast height (d.b.h.) that, after considering its age, height, value, or function, the tree or tree stand is determined to be significant. Important factors to note are that significant trees can be any species of tree meeting the size requirement, and they must be healthy. Landmark trees hold special status. A landmark tree is any healthy tree over thirty inches in diameter.

A key element of updating the regulations is to first understand the framework we work within. Under the Growth Management Act, Redmond is designated within an Urban Growth Boundary, which essentially means we will continue to absorb population growth as it occurs. The Urban Growth Boundary is a mechanism to curtail urban sprawl. In Redmond, our eastern border is generally the urban growth boundary, curtailing urban development out towards the Snoqualmie Valley.

In 1998, Redmond had a population of 44,383. According to King County’s 1998 Growth Report, there were 18,705 housing units (8,635 single-family homes and 10,068 multifamily units) and 52,812 jobs in Redmond. That is a stark difference to current statistics. In 2019, Redmond’s population grew to 65,860 people. There were 13,316 single-family residences, 19,343 multi-family units, and 97,863 jobs.

Redmond’s Comprehensive Plan identifies growth in its two urban centers (Downtown and Overlake) in support of light rail. There will undoubtedly be some infill development in established neighborhoods as well, and it is acknowledged that maintaining neighborhood character is important.