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Why You Need to Have a Registered Tree Service Provider Taking Care of Your Trees in Seattle, WA

January 23, 2023

Eric Ledford

Why You Need To Have A Registered Tree Service Taking Care Of Your Seattle Trees.

As of 2023, the city of Seattle requires tree care companies to be registered with the city to provide tree care services.

tree care companies must be city-approved in seattle wa, sound tree care

Did you know that tree care companies in Seattle, Washington, must be registered and approved by the city to provide tree removal, pruning, and other tree care services?

Ordinances and regulations to protect our Seattle area trees and communities from unnecessary tree removal are great news for reputable tree care companies and arborists who take tree care seriously and take pride in their work.

Knowing that the city has vetted the tree service you hire provides peace of mind and protects you from penalties.

As of 2023, tree care companies operating in Seattle must be registered with the city and apply for permits to prune, plant, and remove trees. Any tree services operating in Seattle without city approval face penalties, fines, and license revocation.

Why Do Tree Companies Need To Be Registered And Approved In Seattle, WA?

The reasons the City of Seattle has implemented a registration and permit process for tree services are primarily focused on protecting trees and consumers.

1. To prevent companies from removing trees solely for profit.

The city received many complaints from residents who were approached by so-called tree care companies telling them that their trees were either unhealthy or posing a risk and needed to be removed. Others told tales of exorbitant prices. Some just took them at their word and had their trees removed, while others contacted a local arborist and learned that their trees didn’t need to be removed.

2. To ensure that certified and trained professionals complete tree planting, pruning, and removal safely.

After extensive research, the city learned that many of the tree care companies operating in Seattle were not certified, didn’t have an arborist, and had no formal training. Not only did this pose a serious problem for consumers but also for the preservation and protection of Seattle trees.

3. To preserve and protect Seattle trees.

Seattle is losing its canopy at an alarming rate. In response to public and environmental concerns, the city decided to crack down on unethical tree planting, removal, and improper care by implementing stronger protections and enforcement in November 2022.

For your protection and the protection of your trees, the next time you need tree care in Seattle, make sure you use a registered tree care company. You can find a list of Seattle registered tree care companies at https://www.seattle.gov/transportation/projects-and-programs/programs/trees-and-landscaping-program/registered-tree-service-providers.

Sound Tree Care is registered to provide tree care services in Seattle and Burien, Washington. We have a certified arborist on staff and a team of licensed tree care specialists that strive to keep your trees healthy and thriving. We provide tree care consultations on tree planting, disease prevention and treatment, proper pruning, and tree removal.

Our tree care services have been voted the best in the Seattle area by TreeRemovalReview.com and Trees.com. We are the tree lovers you can trust with your Seattle trees.

Sound Tree Care is a top-rated, licensed tree care company with a certified arborist on staff serving SeaTac, Seattle, and the surrounding communities. Our tree care specialists can help you keep your trees healthy and strong with regular tree pruning, preventative maintenance, removal, and disease treatment services.

TALK TO US ABOUT YOUR TREES TODAY!

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Winter Tree Maintenance Checklist: Expert Care for Healthy Trees

By Eric Ledford • February 1, 2025

Winter is the perfect time for essential tree maintenance. Dormant trees are easier to assess and prune, and proactive care during the off-season can prevent damage from storms and ensure a vibrant landscape come spring. Whether you’re managing storm-related issues, pruning for health and productivity, or preparing for the growing season, this guide will help you keep your trees in peak condition. 1. Emergency Tree Services for Winter Storms Winter storms in Seattle often bring heavy rain, wind, and snow, leading to tree damage such as broken branches, uprooted trunks, or fallen limbs. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to preventing further risks. Post-Storm Inspections: Look for hazardous conditions like cracks, hanging branches, or leaning trees. Hazard Tree Removal: Remove trees that pose an immediate risk to your home, power lines, or roadways. Storm Damage Prevention: Prune overextended or weakened branches before storms hit to minimize hazards. At Sound Tree Care, we specialize in emergency tree services, including hazard tree removal and post-storm cleanup, ensuring your property is safe and secure. 2. Prune Trees in Winter for Health and Productivity Winter pruning is an essential task for maintaining tree health and safety. Without leaves, it’s easier to see a tree’s structure and address potential problems. Structural Pruning: Remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches to reduce risk and encourage strong growth. Aesthetic Pruning: Shape trees for improved appearance and safety. Special Focus on Fruit and Nut Trees Orchard Pruning : Prune apple, cherry, and pear trees to enhance fruit production by increasing air circulation and sunlight exposure. Nut Tree Care: Winter pruning of walnut and pecan trees prevents sap loss during the growing season and promotes healthier growth. Our ISA Certified Arborists offer expert orchard pruning and maintenance to maximize your trees’ productivity and longevity. 3. Tree Risk Assessment : Prioritize Safety and Longevity Winter is an ideal time to evaluate tree health and assess risks, especially in urban environments like Seattle. A thorough tree risk assessment includes: Inspecting for cracks, decay, or weakened roots. Evaluating the likelihood of branch or whole tree failure. Identifying potential hazards to nearby homes, vehicles, and pedestrians. Sound Tree Care’s certified arborists provide comprehensive evaluations to ensure your trees are safe and your property protected. 4. Seattle Tree Care : Preparing for Spring Growth Seattle’s mild winters make it possible to prepare your landscape for a vibrant spring. Key steps include: Fertilizing: Use a slow-release fertilizer to replenish nutrients. Mulching: Protect roots with a 2–4 inch layer of mulch to insulate and retain moisture. Pest Control: Address overwintering pests like Bronze Birch Borer or Wooly Adelgid to prevent spring infestations. Sound Tree Care’s local expertise in Seattle tree care ensures your trees thrive in the Pacific Northwest’s unique climate. Why Choose Sound Tree Care? At Sound Tree Care, we’re committed to providing exceptional tree care services tailored to Seattle’s unique environment. From emergency tree services and orchard pruning to comprehensive tree risk assessments, our ISA Certified Arborists deliver expert solutions to keep your trees healthy and safe. Contact Sound Tree Care Today Need expert winter pruning or help managing your trees this season? Call 206-486-7790 or use our convenient online form to schedule your service. Whether you need emergency tree removal, orchard pruning, or a professional tree risk assessment, our ISA Certified Arborists are here to help! Visit www.soundtreecarellc.com to get started.