Forest Practices

See also Tree pruning for storm damage.

The natural forest setting is an important element of what attracts many of us to the Mirrormont neighborhood. The MCA realizes that trees can sometimes pose a hazard, must be removed for additions or improvements to a property, or residents may simply like to have more light in their yard or home. A tree cutting Permit is often required by the county when removing trees in Mirrormont. There are also restrictions and permits when removing areas of native vegetation or grading areas for a new driveway, garage, or an addition. The same phone numbers and websites are used for both tree cutting and grading and are outlined below.

When you are planning on cutting trees or grading, or if you are concerned about a neighbor who is, we ask that first of all that neighbors communicate with each other about the project. Many times this will ease tension between neighbors before it arises. Waking up to chainsaws can be an uneasy feeling and result in an uncomfortable situation between neighbors. With some property boundaries aligned in strange ways, it is a good idea to make sure you and your neighbor are clear on the exact location of property lines before you begin marking or cutting trees. To insure that property lines are clear, it may be necessary to obtain a Property Line Survey from a licensed survey company as well.

You may email forestpractices@mirrormont.org for additional information or help on the subject. With only the address of the property in question you may check the status of permits on the county website or call King County at (206) 296-6680, provide the address, and they will check on permit status. If you need a tree cutting or grading permit, begin also with this phone number.

The King County Website for Tree Cutting, Land Clearing, and Grading Regulations as well as information on fines for not obtaining the permit is available here.

The actual restrictions on tree cutting and grading are based on the percentage of total area that has been cleared on your property. In addition, some properties have limitations due to slope or sensitive creek and wetland areas. After contacting the county from one of the methods outlined above, the County Forester will gather data on your lot from county records and come to your house and look at your lot to make a judgment as to your tree removal or grading requests. The tree cutting permit lasts for a year and may be added to within that period, for no additional charge in most cases, if you decide you might like to remove another tree.

If you have questions or concerns about tree cutting or grading in Mirrormont you may use the phone numbers listed above or send emails to forestpractices@mirrormont.org .