Letter PLN2024-0044CITY OF EDMONDS
121 51h Avenue North, Edmonds WA 98020
Phone: 425.771.0220 • Fax: 425.771.0221 • Web: www.edmondwa.ov
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT • PLANNING DIVISION
f'oC. I S9"
June 11, 2024
Brian Moll
16121 N Meadowdale Rd.
Edmonds, WA 98026
Subject: Hazard Tree Removal
Dear Mr. Moll,
You contacted the City of Edmonds regarding the removal of a hazard tree located on your property at
16121 N Meadowdale Road. The identified bigleaf maple is located in an area sloped >25%, which is
thereby critical area pursuant to Edmonds Community Development Code ECDC 23.10.040(A)(1).
Generally, the removal of trees, or any vegetation, within a critical area or critical area buffer is not an
allowed activity. Pursuant to ECDC 23.40.220.C.8 the removal of invasive species or hazard trees is
allowable with certain conditions or requirements.
The submitted tree hazard evaluation form and arborist report from a certified arborist document the risk
posed by the bigleaf maple, satisfying ECDC 23.40.220(C)(8)(b)(i). The arborist concluded removal to be
the only appropriate action (ECDC 23.40.220(C)(8)(b)(ii)).
Removal of this hazardous bigleaf maple is therefore allowed with the following conditions:
1. Only the tree identified in the tree hazard evaluation form may be cut.
2. ECDC 23.40.220(C)(8)(b)(iv) requires that hazard trees be replaced with new trees at a ratio of
two to one. The replacement trees must be native and indigenous species and 1-2 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. The trees must be planted within one year of the
tree cutting activity. Replacement trees should be planted in the general vicinity of the trees
which are removed, as determined by the arborist. Replacement plantings are subject to
inspection.
3. As indicated in the submitted arborist report and required by ECDC 23.40.220(C)(8)(b)(iii), all
cuttings shall remain within the critical area onsite, and the remainder of the tree shall be left in
place as a snag to support the slope and prevent erosion.
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions, 425-771-0220.
Sincerely,
Tristan Sewell
Planner