Trees
Trees Support Water Quality
Pierce County receives 38-56 inches of rain per year. Rain that does not soak into the ground turns into runoff that picks up oils, fertilizers and other chemicals along the way that pollute our streams, rivers and Puget Sound.
Trees catch rainwater and slow runoff, which cleans the water and reduces the risk of flooding. They help prevent erosion along stream banks and allow more water to soak into the ground to replenish groundwater.
What can trees do for you?
- Trees increase property value
- Trees shade our homes and protect against cold during the winter
- Trees filter pollutants out of runoff as water drains through roots and soil
- Trees provide habitat for birds, butterflies and beneficial insects
Diseased/Dying Trees
- If you live in a residential subdivision, you likely have street trees that were required to be installed when the plat was first developed. The health, maintenance and replacement of those trees is the responsibility of the individual home owner or HOA per Pierce County Code.
- In other developments, multi-family, commercial, industrial, civic, street, parking lot and buffer trees were required to be installed when the development was first completed. The health, maintenance and replacement of those trees is the responsibility of the property owner per Pierce County Code.
- If you are looking for a replacement tree, you can replace with the same species you are removing, pick from this recommended street tree list or consult with a landscape architect or nursery professional.
- You can also contact the PPW Current Planning for direction at (253) 798-7218 or submit your question via this form to the Development Center.
For more information on how trees benefit our community, explore these resources:
- Trees are Good - Find an arborist in your area and other tree care information
- Great Plant Picks - Find a great tree for your yard
- Washington Native Plant Society - Find native trees and plants for your yard
- Natural Yard Care - Reduce your use of fertilizer and pesticide
- Let the Rain Soak In - Learn other ways to encourage rain to soak into the ground
- Pierce Conservation District - Urban Tree Sale
- City of Tacoma Tree Coupon Program - Purchase discounted trees
- Green Blocks Parkland - A partnership between Pierce County and the Tacoma Tree Foundation to increase the tree canopy in the Parkland community