STF20160017 Hazard tree removal letter.pdfI11C. 189m
July 7, 2016
CITY OF FDMONDS
121 5th Avenue North, Edmonds WA 98020
Phone: 425.771.0220 • Fax: 425.771.0221 • Web: www.ci.edmonds.wa.us
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT • PLANNING DIVISION
Karen Haase Herrick
6804 161St Place SW
Edmonds WA 98026
Jeff Gabriel
6908 161St Place SW
Edmonds WA 98026
Subject: Hazard Tree Removal (STF20160017)
Dear Ms. Herrick and Mr. Gabriel,
You have contacted the City of Edmonds regarding the removal of a six hazardous trees. Three
of the trees are located in the common area west of your residence. Of the remaining three trees
two are located at 6804 161St Place and one is located at 6908 161St Place. The trees are located
on or adjacent to land considered critical areas pursuant to Edmonds Community Development
Code (ECDC) 23.40 and 23.80 due to the relatively steep slopes and erosion tendencies of the
soil.
Generally the removal of trees, or any vegetation, within a critical area or critical area buffer is
not an allowed activity, unless, pursuant to ECDC 23.40.220.C.7, it involves the removal of
invasive species or hazard trees.
A tree hazard evaluation form from a certified arborist has been submitted documenting the trees
as hazardous and in a state of decline. ECDC 23.40.220.C.7.b.iv requires that hazard trees be
replaced with new trees at a ratio of two to one. Your request includes a plan to replace the six
trees with native tree species in the vicinity of the trees being removed.
An exemption for the tree cutting is granted with the following conditions:
1. Only the trees identified in the tree hazard evaluation form may be cut.
2. The replacement trees must be planted within one year of the tree cutting activity.
Replacement trees should be planted in the generally vicinity of the trees which are
removed.
3. Replacement trees shall be species that are native and indigenous to the site and a
minimum of one inch in diameter at breast height (dbh) for deciduous trees and a
minimum of six feet in height for evergreen trees as measured from the top of the root
ball. If the identified replacement trees cannot be found in the required size, substitute
replacement trees that are native and indigenous to the area may be approved by the
Planning Division. Please contact the City before substituting replacement tree species,
4. Stumps of the trees cut must be left in place to provide slope stability and prevent
erosion.
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions, 425-771-0220„
Sincerely,
Sean Conrad
Associate Planner