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Tree care · Pacific

Tree care in Washington

Washington has two very different tree worlds. West of the Cascades it is mild and wet, and tall conifers like Douglas fir and western red cedar grow close to homes. East of the Cascades it is drier, with hotter summers, colder winters and ponderosa pines.

Common trees in Washington

Trees that commonly grow or are often planted here. The storm risk is our plain rating for the species as a whole, not an inspection of your tree.

See every species in the tree library.

Pests and problems to ask about

Widely known concerns in this part of the country. If you see signs, ask a certified arborist or your state extension office. Ranges change, so check your state's official maps.

More in tree pests and diseases.

Storm season

Wind storms and heavy rain from October to March can topple tall trees, especially when the ground is soaked. East of the Cascades, wildfire season runs through the dry summer and early fall.

Main storm months: October to March for wind and rain; July to October for wildfire in the east

After a storm, stay away from downed lines and call the utility. Call 911 if anyone is in danger. Read what to do after a storm and our storm guides.

When to prune

West of the Cascades, much pruning is done in the drier months from late spring to early fall, and dormant-season work suits many deciduous trees. In the drier east, avoid heavy pruning during hot, dry spells and ask about fire-risk clearing near homes.

Each species page lists its own best and worst times. See the month-by-month tree care calendar and when to prune.

Tree permits

Many cities and counties have tree ordinances, and some protect certain trees or require a permit before removal, so check with your city or county before work starts. This is a short explanation, not legal advice.

Short explanation, not legal advice. Read our plain guide to tree permits.

Tree permits in this state

City rules we checked in Washington, with links to the official sources. Checked 26 October 2026. Rules change; short explanation, not legal advice.

See tree removal permits by city for every city we checked.

For homeowners

Hiring a tree service in Washington

State registration required

Washington requires a state registration for at least some tree work. Ask the company for its registration. See the Washington state rules page for details and official links.

  • Ask for a current certificate of liability insurance and workers' compensation, and call the insurer to confirm it is active.
  • Check the state rules page for Washington tree work: tree removal is on the state's list of contractor specialties that register with Labor and Industries, and spraying trees for hire needs a state pesticide applicator license.
  • Ask whether a certified arborist will look at tall conifers before the quote.
  • Get two or three written quotes that list cleanup, wood removal and stump work.
  • Be careful of anyone who asks for payment up front after a storm.

Get two or three written quotes. To find local pros, search Google Maps and read their reviews. Full steps in how to hire a tree service and the hiring checklist.

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Washington tree care questions

When is the best time to prune trees in Washington?

It depends on which side of the Cascades you live on and on the species. Dormant-season pruning suits many deciduous trees, and conifers can be worked through the drier months. Dead or hazardous limbs can come out any time. Ask a certified arborist about your tree.

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Washington?

Rules are set mostly by cities and counties, and many have tree codes, especially for large trees, critical areas and shorelines. Check with your city or county before you cut. This is a short explanation, not legal advice.

Does Washington license tree service companies?

Tree removal is on the state's list of contractor specialties, so tree companies register with the Department of Labor and Industries (L&I). L&I registration requires a bond and liability insurance, and the amounts can change, so check with L&I. Spraying trees for hire needs a pesticide license. Check the state rules page to confirm.

Why do tall conifers fall in wind storms?

Wet soil, shallow roots and tall crowns can make big trees easier to blow over. A tree with root rot, a leaning trunk or a dead top is at higher risk. Have a certified arborist check tall trees near your house.

How do I lower fire risk from trees near my home in eastern Washington?

Ask a tree service or your local fire district about clearing dead branches and thinning trees near the house. Advice differs by area, so start with your local fire authority.

What should I do after a storm drops a tree?

Stay away from leaning or split trees and anything touching a power line. Call the utility for downed lines and 911 if anyone is in danger. Then call an insured tree service.

Does Lirevon do tree work in Washington?

No. Lirevon is a remote marketing team for tree service companies. We do not do tree work and we do not list or rank tree companies. To find a local insured pro, search Google Maps, read their reviews and get two or three written quotes.

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