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1. Do I need a permit to plant a street tree?

Yes. We will submit a permit request for you, but we cannot guarantee that it will be approved. All street tree permit requests are reviewed by the city's planning division. Their decision depends on many factors including the width of the planting strip, proximity to other trees, distance from the planting site to intersections and driveways, and the presence of underground utilities.

2. How do I know if my planting spot is in the right-of-way?

Generally speaking, the area between the curb/street and the sidewalk is the public right-of-way. If your street does not have curbs or sidewalks, it may be difficult to determine if your tree is planned to be planted in the right-of-way. Call the city's Engineering Services Department at 253-841-5491 to inquire.

3. Why do I need to locate underground utilities before getting a street tree permit?

There are many utilities commonly located under planting strips that would be negatively impacted if a tree were planted too close. Water and sewer lines are of particular concern because the roots of a tree planted too close can infiltrate small cracks in the lines over time, leading to breaks in the pipes which can be very costly to repair. We also want to make sure you don’t hit a gas line! Before planting your tree, it is your responsibility to call 811 before you dig.

4. How do I avoid hitting an underground utility line when I dig my planting hole?

Not only is it within your interest to contact 811 (Utilities Underground Location Center) before you plant a tree, it’s the law. Before you plant your tree, call 811 at least 3 days before you plan to dig. Visibly mark your proposed planting location in white before the utility companies arrive. Utility companies will mark the location of your water, electric, and gas lines.

You should also know where your side sewer line is located before digging your planting hole. If you are unsure where your side sewer is, you may call the city's Engineering Services Department at 253-841-5577 or hire a private utility locate service. Plant your tree at least 7.5-10 feet away from your sewer and water lines.

5. Why does the city deny street tree planting permits?

The city will deny a street tree planting permit if it does not meet their standard criteria. Trees must be planted to the following specifications:
- 7.5 feet to 10 feet from underground utility lines (*spacing dependent upon tree size)
- 10 feet to 15 feet from power poles
- 15 feet from street lights
- 30 feet from a corner curb

In addition, your planting strip must be wide enough to accommodate the species you chose (see minimum planting strip widths on the available trees list). The city does not allow trees in planter strips between the curb and sidewalk if the planter strip is narrower than 4 feet. Trees planted under power lines must be less than 25 feet at maturity (small shade tree).

The city will also consider the proximity of other trees in the area, make sure new trees are planted far enough apart that they have room to grow, and make sure they are not too close to structures like driveways. Not all locations are suitable for a tree. If your street tree permit is denied, we may be able to work with you to select a more appropriate tree for your planting strip (depending on species availability). You are allowed to apply for up to three (3) trees, so consider all of the available planting locations around your property before completing your application.

6. Can I plant a tree under power lines?

Yes, as long as it is a small species. Check the species availability page for details. All trees under power lines must be 25 feet or less at maturity. The Puyallup NeighborWoods program offers a few species appropriate for under power lines every year.