HomeMy WebLinkAboutD_Springbrook Tree Removal and CAE_v2_20250430DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY
AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
D_Springbrook Tree Removal and CAE_v1
PLANNING DIVISION
ROUTINE VEGETATION MANAGEMENT PERMIT
AND CERTIFICATE OF EXEMPTION FROM
CRITICAL AREA REGULATIONS
EVALUATION FORM & DECISION
DATE OF DECISION: April 30, 2025
PROJECT NUMBER: LUA25-000118, RVMP, CAE
PROJECT NAME: Springbrook Tree Removal
PROJECT MANAGER: Ashley Wragge, Assistant Planner
OWNER: Carey McIntosh, Sentinel Real Estate
5301 Talbot Rd S, Renton, WA 98055
APPLICANT/CONTACT: Jessy Jacquinot, A Plus Tree, LLC
6412 S 900 E, Suite 201, Murray, UT 84121
PROJECT LOCATION: 5301 Talbot Rd S, Renton, WA 98055 (APN 3123059023)
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The applicant, Jessy Jacquinot, on behalf of A Plus Tree LLC, is requesting a
Routine Vegetation Management Permit (RVMP) and an exemption from critical areas regulations (CAE) to
remove one (1) western cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa) located at 5301 Talbot Rd S (APN 3123059023). The
subject property is approximately 558,439 square feet (12.82 acres) and situated within the Residential-14 (R-
14) zone and the Talbot Community Planning Area. Per the City of Renton (COR) Maps, the subject property
has an unnamed fish bearing stream and sensitive slopes on site. In the Arborist Report, prepared by Jessy
Jacquinot, (Attachment A), the site map indicates the proposed tree removal is within the stream buffer, which
requires a Critical Areas Exemption in addition to the RVMP. In February 2025, this site received approval of an
RVMP to manage thirteen (13) trees, twelve (12) black cottonwoods (Populus fremontii) and one (1) red alder
(Alnus rubra), under file number LUA25-000007, which was subject to two (2) conditions of approval
(Attachment B).
In the report, the ISA Certified Arborist (Daniel Potts) proposed the removal of the western cottonwood
(Populus trichocarpa) tree that is eighteen and a half inches (18.5”) in diameter a breast height (dbh).
According to the report, the roots are causing severe lifting of the sidewalk on the south side of the tree that
can no longer be mitigated through grinding. In order to repair the sidewalk, the concrete panels would need
to be removed and replaced which would necessitate the pruning of structural roots on the compression side
of the tree. According to the arborist, the tree is already leaning toward the housing and the root pruning that
would happen to repair the sidewalk, would increase the likelihood of compression root failure. The arborist
recommends snagging the tree at fifteen feet (15’) tall to mitigate the risk but also provide wildlife benefit.
Docusign Envelope ID: EDD279AC-74FD-4FA2-8D25-E48BC2D186D7
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development Routine Vegetation Management Permit
Springbrook Tree Removal LUA25-000118, RVMP, CAE
Permit Date: April 30, 2025 Page 2 of 5
D_Springbrook Tree Removal and CAE_v1
CRITICAL AREA: Type F Stream (unnamed), regulated slopes (>15% & <=25%), moderate landslide
hazard areas, and a wetland buffer.
EXEMPTION
JUSTIFICATION: Renton Municipal Code (RMC) 4-3-050 Critical Areas Regulations: RMC 4-3-
050C.3.c.iii, Dangerous Trees: Removal of non-native invasive ground cover or weeds listed by King County
Noxious Weed Board or other government agency or dangerous trees, as defined in chapter 4-11 RMC, which
have been approved by the City and certified dangerous by a licensed landscape architect, or certified
arborist, selection of whom to be approved by the City based on the type of information required. Limited to
cutting of dangerous trees; such hazardous trees shall be retained as large woody debris in critical areas
and/or associated buffers, where feasible.
RMC 4-3-050.C.3.c.iii EXEMPT, PROHIBITED AND NONCONFORMING ACTIVITIES: Activities taking place in
critical areas and their associated buffers and listed in the "Exempt Activities – Permitted Within Critical Areas
and Associated Buffers" table are exempt from the applicable provisions of Section 4-3-050, provided this
letter of exemption has been issued.
ROUTINE VEGETATION MANAGEMENT REVIEW CRITERIA 4-9-195D.4:
YES 1. The lot shall comply with minimum tree density requirements pursuant to RMC 4-4-130,
Tree Retention and Land Clearing Regulations.
Staff Comments: In accordance with RMC 4-4-130.H, compliance with tree credit
requirements necessitates a minimum of 30 tree credits per net acre. The subject
property, located at 5301 Talbot Rd S (APN 3123059023), is approximately 558,439
square feet (12.82 acres). Based on the property size, 385 tree credits are required to
meet the minimum tree density requirement (30 tree credits per acre × 12.82 acres =
385 credits).
According to the Tree Retention and Tree Credit Worksheet (Attachment C), the property
has 324 trees on site after deducting trees in critical areas. Page two of the Tree
Retention and Tree Credit Worksheet accounts for 326 trees on the property, totaling
1,592 tree credits. The 948 tree credits proposed for retention within the parcel exceed
the minimum tree credit requirements and would maintain the minimum tree density
following the removal of the western cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa) tree’s canopy
and conversion to a wildlife snag.
YES 2. The land clearing and tree removal shall be consistent with restrictions for critical
areas, pursuant to RMC 4-4-130, Tree Retention and Land Clearing Regulations, and
RMC 4-3-050, Critical Areas Regulations.
Staff Comments: City of Renton (COR) Maps has identified sensitive slopes and an
unnamed Type F stream. A Critical Areas Exemption certificate is a component of this
decision due to the proposed tree removal being within the stream buffer. According to
the arborist report (Attachment A), mitigation to the sidewalk damage is no longer
manageable through root grinding. Structural roots would have to be pruned for the
sidewalk repairs and based on the existing lean of the tree, it would increase the
likelihood of compression root failure. This would further create a dangerous
environment since the existing lean of the tree is toward housing; therefore,
maintenance work is necessary. The arborist recommends mitigating the tree by
reducing it to a wildlife snag at fifteen feet (15’) so it continues to offer wildlife habitat
Docusign Envelope ID: EDD279AC-74FD-4FA2-8D25-E48BC2D186D7
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development Routine Vegetation Management Permit
Springbrook Tree Removal LUA25-000118, RVMP, CAE
Permit Date: April 30, 2025 Page 3 of 5
D_Springbrook Tree Removal and CAE_v1
benefit. Removal of the dangerous tree is an exempt activity per Renton Municipal Code
(RMC) 4-3-050C.3.c.iii. Refer to the Critical Area Exemption Findings below for
additional exemption information.
YES 3. Removal of a landmark tree shall meet the review criteria for removal off landmark tree,
pursuant to RMC 4-4-130, Tree Retention and Land Clearing Regulations.
i. The tree is determined to be dangerous; or
ii. The tree is causing obvious physical damage to structures including but not
limited to building foundations, driveways or parking lots, and for which no
reasonable alternative to tree removal exists. Routine maintenance of roofs
that is required due to leaf fall does not constitute obvious physical damage to
structure; or
iii. Removal of tree(s) to provide solar access to buildings incorporating active
solar devices. Windows are solar devices only when they are south-facing and
include special storage elements to distribute heat energy; or
iv. The Administrator determines the removal is necessary to achieve a specific
and articulable purpose or goal of this Title.
Staff Comments: Per RMC 4-11-200, Definitions T, a landmark tree is classified as such
if it measures with a caliper of twenty-four inches (24") or greater, except for big leaf
maples, black cottonwoods, and red alder trees, which qualify as landmark trees with
a caliper of thirty inches (30") or greater. The tree proposed for mitigation is an eighteen
and a half inch (18.5”) diameter at breast height (dbh) western cottonwood (Populus
trichocarpa). Per the City’s classification, this is a significant tree.
N/A 4. Street frontage and parking lot trees and landscaping shall be preserved unless
otherwise approved by the Administrator.
Staff Comments: Not applicable. The subject tree is not a street frontage tree nor a
parking lot tree. Neither street frontage nor parking landscape is proposed to be
removed.
N/A 5. The land clearing and tree removal shall not remove any landscaping or protected trees
required as part of a land development permit.
Staff Comments: Not applicable. The tree removal would not be removing landscaping
or protected trees required as part of a land development permit.
YES 6. The land clearing and tree removal shall maintain visual screening and buffering
between land uses of differing intensity, consistent with applicable landscaping and
setback provisions.
Staff Comments: The proposed tree for removal is located in the interior of the parcel
and the potential removal would not negatively impact visual screening or buffering
between the adjacent land uses.
YES 7. The land clearing and tree removal shall not create or contribute to a hazardous
condition, such as increased potential for blowdown, pest infestation, disease, or other
problems that may result from selectively removing trees and other vegetation from a
lot.
Docusign Envelope ID: EDD279AC-74FD-4FA2-8D25-E48BC2D186D7
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development Routine Vegetation Management Permit
Springbrook Tree Removal LUA25-000118, RVMP, CAE
Permit Date: April 30, 2025 Page 4 of 5
D_Springbrook Tree Removal and CAE_v1
Staff Comments: The provided documentation did not indicate that the removal of the
trees would create or contribute to a hazardous condition.
N/A 8. The land clearing and tree removal shall be consistent with the requirements of the
Shoreline Master Program, pursuant to RMC 4-3-090F1, Vegetation Conservation, and
RMC 4-4-130, Tree Retention and Land Clearing Regulations.
Staff Comments: Not applicable. The property is not located within shoreline
jurisdiction.
CRITICAL AREA EXEMPTION FINDINGS:
The proposed development is consistent with the following findings pursuant to RMC section 4-3-050C.2.d:
YES i. The activity is not prohibited by this or any other provision of the Renton Municipal
Code or State or Federal law or regulation;
Staff Comments: Removal of dangerous trees is not prohibited by any federal
regulations and it is an exempt activity in the City of Renton’s Critical Areas
Regulations. Approval of this exemption would act as written permission to allow the
removal of the identified tree.
YES ii. The activity will be conducted using best management practices as specified by
industry standards or applicable Federal agencies or scientific principles;
Staff Comments: The best management practice recommended by the arborist is
to reduce the tree into a fifteen-foot (15’) wildlife snag. This would sufficiently
mitigate the risk to the nearby housing while allowing for the sidewalk to be repaired
and offer continued benefit to the wildlife.
YES iii. Impacts are minimized and, where applicable, disturbed areas are immediately
restored;
Staff Comments: The mitigation is aimed at minimizing potential damage while
maintaining wildlife benefits.
YES iv. Where water body or buffer disturbance has occurred in accordance with an
exemption during construction or other activities, revegetation with native
vegetation shall be required;
Staff Comments: The tree proposed for mitigation is in a stream buffer. Per the
arborist’s recommendation, the tree shall be retained as a fifteen-foot (15’) wildlife
snag. No additional vegetation is proposed to be disturbed necessitating
revegetation efforts.
N/A v. If a hazardous material, activity, and/or facility that is exempt pursuant to this
Section has a significant or substantial potential to degrade groundwater quality,
then the Administrator may require compliance with the Wellhead Protection Area
requirements of this Section otherwise relevant to that hazardous material, activity,
and/or facility. Such determinations will be based upon site and/or chemical-
specific data.
Docusign Envelope ID: EDD279AC-74FD-4FA2-8D25-E48BC2D186D7
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development Routine Vegetation Management Permit
Springbrook Tree Removal LUA25-000118, RVMP, CAE
Permit Date: April 30, 2025 Page 5 of 5
D_Springbrook Tree Removal and CAE_v1
Staff Comments: Not applicable. The proposal does not include a significant or
substantial potential to degrade groundwater quality.
DECISION: The Springbrook Tree Removal Routine Vegetation Management Permit and Critical Areas
Exemption, LUA25-000118, RVMP, CAE is Approved with Conditions*.
*CONDITION OF APPROVAL:
1. As recommended in the Arborist Report (Attachment A), the applicant shall leave the western
cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa) tree as a fifteen-foot (15’) tall wildlife snag.
SIGNATURE & DATE OF DECISION:
________________________________________ ____________________________________
Matthew Herrera, Planning Director Date
RECONSIDERATION: Within 14 days of the decision date, any party may request that the decision be reopened
by the approval body. The approval body may modify his decision if material evidence not readily discoverable
prior the original decision is found or if he finds there was misrepresentation of fact. After review of the
reconsideration request, if the approval body finds sufficient evidence to amend the original decision, there
will be no further extension of the appeal period. Any person wishing to take further action must file a formal
appeal within the 14-day appeal time frame.
APPEALS: Appeals of permit issuance must be filed in writing on or before 5:00 p.m. on May 14, 2025. An
appeal of the decision must be filed within the 14-day appeal period (RCW 43.21.C.075(3); WAC 197-11-
680). Appeals must be submitted electronically to the City Clerk at cityclerk@rentonwa.gov or delivered to
City Hall 1st floor Lobby Hub Monday through Friday. The appeal fee, normally due at the time an appeal is
submitted, will be collected at a future date if your appeal is submitted electronically. The appeal submitted
in person may be paid on the first floor in our Finance Department. Appeals to the Hearing Examiner are
governed by RMC 4-8-110 and additional information regarding the appeal process may be obtained from the
City Clerk’s Office, cityclerk@rentonwa.gov.
EXPIRATION: Two (2) years from the date of decision (date signed).
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment A: Arborist Report prepared by Jessy Jacquinot, dated April 7, 2025
Attachment B: Springbrook Apartments Tree Removal Decision, LUA25-000007, RVMP, dated February 6,
2025
Attachment C: Tree Retention and Tree Credit Worksheet
Docusign Envelope ID: EDD279AC-74FD-4FA2-8D25-E48BC2D186D7
4/30/2025 | 4:08 PM PDT
Arborist Report for Springbrook
5301 Talbot Rd S
Renton, WA 98055
Prepared on April 7th, 2025
Prepared by:
Jessy Jacquinot
ISA Certified Arborist #WE-13500A
jlinzy@aplustree.com
Background Information:
This report was prepared on behalf of Springbrook Apartments concerning one (1) Western
Cottonwood proposed for removal. The report has been requested as the removal requires a
permit from the City of Renton.
The trees was assessed and pictures taken on March 21st, 2025 by Daniel Potts, ISA Certified
Arborist WE-11534A,
Assignment (and any limiting factors):
The assignment is to perform a visual assessment regarding health condition, structural
integrity, threat of pest or disease, and potential hazards. The visual inspection was from ground
grade only.
The assignment is to assess and provide recommendations for future action.
Observations:
At the time of the assessment, the following was observed (please refer to photos in Attachment
A and locations in Attachment B):
• Western Cottonwood, Populus trichocarpa
• The DBH of the tree is 18.5”
• The tree is in fair health
• There was no foliage present at the time of assessment
Attachment A
RECEIVED
04/23/2025 AWragge
PLANNING DIVISION
Docusign Envelope ID: EDD279AC-74FD-4FA2-8D25-E48BC2D186D7
• The roots of the tree are causing severe uplifting of the sidewalk on the south side of
the tree
• The tree is located within a stream buffer
Testing & Analysis:
There were no soil, tree, or other physical testing.
Discussion & Recommendation:
Although this cottonwood is in fair health, the roots are causing severe damage to the adjacent
sidewalk that can no longer be mitigated by grinding. The uplifting is causing a trip hazard. In
order to repair the sidewalk, the panels will need to be removed and replaced which will
necessitate the pruning of a significant number of large structural roots on the compression side
of the tree. The tree is already leaning towards the building on the same side as the sidewalk,
and the necessary root pruning will increase the likelihood of compression root failure. Our
recommendation to allow the repair of the sidewalk but still keep some value of the tree is to
snag the tree at 15 feet. This will mitigate the risk to an acceptable level while maintaining
wildlife habitat.
Arborist Disclaimer
Arborists cannot detect every condition that could possibly lead to the structural failure of a tree. Trees
are living organisms that may fail in ways we do not fully understand. Conditions are often hidden within
trees and below ground. Arborists cannot guarantee that a tree will be healthy or safe, or fail for that
matter, under all circumstances, or for a given period of time. Likewise, remedial treatments, like any
medicine, cannot be guaranteed.
Treatments, pruning and removal of trees may involve considerations beyond the scope of the arborist’s
services such as property boundaries, property ownership, sight lines, disputes between neighbors,
landlord-tenant matters, etc. Arborists cannot take such issues into account unless complete and
accurate information is given to the arborist. The person hiring the arborist accepts full responsibility for
authorizing the recommended treatment or remedial measures.
Trees can be managed, but they cannot be controlled. To live near a tree is to accept some degree of
risk. The only way to eliminate all risks is to eliminate all trees.
This consultant does not verify the safety or health of any tree for any period of time. Construction
activities are hazardous to trees and cause many short and long-term injuries, which can cause trees to
die or topple.
Even when every tree is inspected, inspection involves sampling; therefore, some areas of decay or
weakness may be missed. Weather, winds and the magnitude and direction of storms are not
predictable, and some failures may still occur despite the best application of high professional
standards.
I hereby declare that the above observations, discussion, and recommendation are true to the best of
my knowledge, belief, and professional opinion. In addition, A Plus Tree is held harmless of any of these
opinions from future tree failures.
Docusign Envelope ID: EDD279AC-74FD-4FA2-8D25-E48BC2D186D7
Sincerely,
Jessy Jacquinot| A Plus Tree, LLC
ISA Certified Arborist #WE-13500A
Docusign Envelope ID: EDD279AC-74FD-4FA2-8D25-E48BC2D186D7
Attachment A:
Photo – A
Full view of tree
Docusign Envelope ID: EDD279AC-74FD-4FA2-8D25-E48BC2D186D7
Photo – B
Hardscape damage
Docusign Envelope ID: EDD279AC-74FD-4FA2-8D25-E48BC2D186D7
Photo – C
Hardscape damage
Docusign Envelope ID: EDD279AC-74FD-4FA2-8D25-E48BC2D186D7
Photo– D
Hardscape damage
Docusign Envelope ID: EDD279AC-74FD-4FA2-8D25-E48BC2D186D7
Attachment B:
Property site map with locations of proposed removal
Docusign Envelope ID: EDD279AC-74FD-4FA2-8D25-E48BC2D186D7
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY
AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
LUA25-000007_D_Springbrook Apartments Tree Removal_250206_Final
PLANNING DIVISION
ROUTINE VEGETATION MANAGEMENT PERMIT
EVALUATION FORM & DECISION
DATE OF DECISION: February 6, 2025
PROJECT NUMBER: LUA25-000007, RVMP
PROJECT NAME: Springbrook Apartments Tree Removal
PROJECT MANAGER: Nichole Perry, Associate Planner
OWNER: Carey McIntosh
5301 Talbot Rd S, Renton, WA 98055
APPLICANT/CONTACT: Laci Young
A Plus Tree, LLC
6412 S 900 E, Suite 200, Murray, UT 84121
PROJECT LOCATION: 5301 Talbot Rd S, Renton, WA 98055 (APN 3123059023)
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The applicant, Laci Young, is requesting a Routine Vegetation Management
Permit (RVMP) to remove thirteen (13) trees located at 5301 Talbot Rd S, Renton, WA 98055 (APN
3123059023). The subject property is approximately 558,439 square feet (12.82 acres) in area and situated
within the Residential-14 (R-14) zone and the Talbot Community Planning Area.
An Arborist Report, prepared by A Plus Tree, LLC, dated October 28, 2024, was included with the application
(Attachment A). The report proposes the removal of thirteen (13) trees, twelve (12) Black Cottonwoods
(Populus fremontii) and one (1) red alder (Alnus rubra), due to their hazardous conditions. All thirteen (13)
trees show signs of hazardous leans, structural instability, and potential for collapse. To differentiate
between the trees, the ISA Certified Arborist (Sarah Gaskin) has numbered them 1-13 as noted in the photos
in the Arborist Report (Attachment A) and the Tree Risk Assessment Forms (Attachment B).
CRITICAL AREA: Regulated slopes (>15% & <=25%), Moderate Landslide Hazard Areas, and a Wetland
Buffer.
GENERAL REVIEW CRITERIA RMC 4-9-195D.4:
YES 1. The lot shall comply with minimum tree density requirements pursuant to RMC 4-4-130,
Tree Retention and Land Clearing Regulations.
Staff Comments: In accordance with Renton Municipal Code (RMC) 4-4-130.H,
compliance with tree credit requirements necessitates a minimum of 30 tree credits
per net acre. The subject property, which is approximately 558,439 square feet (12.82
acres), is located at 5301 Talbot Rd S, Renton, WA 98055 (APN 3123059023). Based
Docusign Envelope ID: 59F72B0D-BA8F-4713-A747-FC3097EE2855
Attachment B
Docusign Envelope ID: EDD279AC-74FD-4FA2-8D25-E48BC2D186D7
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development Routine Vegetation Management Permit
Springbrook Apartments Tree Removal LUA25-000007, RVMP
Permit Date: February 6, 2025 Page 2 of 5
LUA25-000007_D_Springbrook Apartments Tree Removal_250206_Final
on the property size, a total of 385 tree credits is required (30 tree credits per acre X
12.82 acres = 384.6 credits).
The Tree Risk Assessment Forms (Attachment B) indicate that thirteen (13) hazardous
trees – twelve (12) Black Cottonwoods (Populus fremontii) and one (1) red alder (Alnus
rubra) are proposed for removal. The Arborist Report (Attachment A) identifies these
trees as having poor taper, severe leans over high-use areas, low crown ratios due to
understory competition, and inherent species characteristics that limit stability. In
addition, the majority experienced failure during a recent weather event. The red alder,
specifically, poses a hazard due to its full canopy lean over an active roadway.
The Tree Credit Worksheet (Attachment C) confirms the retention of 346 trees for a
total of 1,701 tree credits. The property would continue to meet the minimum tree
credit requirements after the removal of the thirteen (13) hazardous trees, ensuring
compliance with RMC 4-4-130.H.
YES 2. The land clearing and tree removal shall be consistent with restrictions for critical
areas, pursuant to RMC 4-4-130, Tree Retention and Land Clearing Regulations, and
RMC 4-3-050, Critical Areas Regulations.
Staff Comments: According to the city’s mapping system, portions of the subject
property may contain regulated slopes (>15% & <=25%). The Arborist Report
(Attachment A) identifies Tree #2, a red alder (Alnus rubra), as being in a stream.
However, the City of Renton’s mapping system does not show a stream at this location
within the streams layer, but rather a surface water ditch.
The removal of thirteen (13) trees, including twelve (12) Black Cottonwoods (Populus
fremontii) and one (1) red alder, is proposed due to hazardous leans, structural
instability, and potential for failure, posing risks to structures, roadways, and active
areas. The removal also includes addressing invasive ivy as part of a broader
landscape cleanup effort.
Based on the existing conditions and topography of the site, staff finds that the
proposed tree removal would not result in adverse impacts to regulated slopes. No
mapped streams are identified at the location of Tree #2, and no other critical areas
are impacted by this proposal. Therefore, the proposed action is consistent with
critical area regulations under RMC 4-4-130 and RMC 4-3-050.
N/A 3. Removal of a landmark tree shall meet the review criteria for removal of a landmark
tree, pursuant to RMC 4-4-130, Tree Retention and Land Clearing Regulations.
i. The tree is determined to be a high-risk tree; or
ii. The tree is causing obvious physical damage to buildings (over 200 square
feet), driveways, parking lots, or utilities, and it can be demonstrated to the
Administrator’s satisfaction that no reasonable alternative to tree removal
exist, including tree root pruning, tree root barriers, tree cabling, or
preventative maintenance, such as cleaning leaf debris, deadwood removal,
or directional/clearance pruning; or
iii. Removal of tree(s) to provide solar access to buildings incorporating active
solar devices. Windows are solar devices only when they are south facing and
include special storage elements to distribute heat energy; or
Docusign Envelope ID: 59F72B0D-BA8F-4713-A747-FC3097EE2855Docusign Envelope ID: EDD279AC-74FD-4FA2-8D25-E48BC2D186D7
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development Routine Vegetation Management Permit
Springbrook Apartments Tree Removal LUA25-000007, RVMP
Permit Date: February 6, 2025 Page 3 of 5
LUA25-000007_D_Springbrook Apartments Tree Removal_250206_Final
iv. The Administrator determines the removal is necessary to achieve a specific
and articulable purpose or goal of this Title.
Staff Comments: The Black Cottonwoods (Populus fremontii) and red alder (Alnus
rubra) proposed for removal do not qualify as landmark trees under RMC 4-4-130
because their diameters are less than the required 30 inches (30") for black
cottonwoods and red alders to be classified as landmark trees.
A Routine Vegetation Management Permit (RVMP) is required because the project
involves the removal of more than two (2) significant trees within a calendar year. Per
RMC 4-4-130, cottonwood and alder trees qualify as significant trees if they have a
caliper of at least eight inches (8"), which applies to all 13 trees identified and
considered for removal in the Arborist Report.
Since the proposed tree removal meets the criteria for a Routine Vegetation
Management Permit but not for landmark tree removal, this section is not applicable.
YES 4. Street frontage and parking lot trees and landscaping shall be preserved unless
otherwise approved by the Administrator.
Staff Comments: The trees proposed for removal, as part of the Springbrook
Apartments RVMP project, are not designated as street frontage or parking lot trees.
However, their removal would impact the existing landscaping on-site.
According to the Tree Credit Worksheet (Attachment C), 346 trees will be retained on
the property, ensuring that a significant tree canopy and landscaping remain. Given
this level of retention, the removal of the thirteen (13) hazardous trees is not expected
to negatively impact street frontage or parking lot landscaping.
Additionally, the project site is located within the Residential-14 (R-14) zone and is
surrounded by properties of similar residential intensity. The removal of these trees is
primarily for safety purposes and would not alter screening or buffering functions
between different land uses.
Based on the existing conditions and substantial tree retention, the removal of these
hazardous trees would not negatively affect visual aesthetics, buffering, or
compliance with landscaping requirements.
N/A 5. The land clearing and tree removal shall not remove any landscaping or protected
trees required as part of a land development permit.
Staff Comments: Not Applicable. The alder and cottonwood trees would not have
been required as part of a land development permit for landscaping or tree
requirements. Neither street frontage nor parking landscaping is proposed to be
removed.
YES 6. The land clearing and tree removal shall maintain visual screening and buffering
between land uses of differing intensity, consistent with applicable landscaping and
setback provisions.
Staff Comments: The trees proposed for removal, as part of the Springbrook
Apartments RVMP project, are primarily located within the interior of the site and are
not essential for visual screening or buffering between land uses of differing intensity.
According to the Tree Credit Worksheet (Attachment C), 346 trees would be retained
Docusign Envelope ID: 59F72B0D-BA8F-4713-A747-FC3097EE2855Docusign Envelope ID: EDD279AC-74FD-4FA2-8D25-E48BC2D186D7
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development Routine Vegetation Management Permit
Springbrook Apartments Tree Removal LUA25-000007, RVMP
Permit Date: February 6, 2025 Page 4 of 5
LUA25-000007_D_Springbrook Apartments Tree Removal_250206_Final
DECISION: The Springbrook Apartments Tree Removal, LUA25-000007, RVMP is Approved with
Conditions.
*CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL:
1. The applicant shall comply with the snagging recommendations of the Arborist Report, prepared by
on the property, ensuring that a substantial tree canopy and vegetative buffer remain.
Given this level of retention, the removal of the thirteen (13) hazardous trees would not
significantly alter screening or buffering functions.
Additionally, the property is located within the Residential-14 (R-14) zone and is
adjacent to lots with detached dwellings of similar intensity. As a result, the removal
of these trees would not impact the separation between differing land uses.
Based on the existing site conditions and the retention of a significant number of trees,
the proposed tree removal is consistent with applicable landscaping and setback
provisions and would not result in a loss of visual screening or buffering.
Compliant if
conditions of
approval are
met
7. The land clearing and tree removal shall not create or contribute to a hazardous
condition, such as increased potential for blowdown, pest infestation, disease, or
other problems that may result from selectively removing trees and other vegetation
from a lot.
Staff Comments: The removal of the thirteen (13) hazardous trees, as recommended
in the Arborist Report (Attachment A), would not create a hazardous condition but
instead mitigate the risk of tree collapse and damage to nearby buildings, roadways,
and active areas. The trees proposed for removal exhibit poor taper, structural
instability, hazardous leans, and weak root systems, all of which contribute to their
likelihood of failure. Additionally, the removal of invasive ivy as part of the broader
landscape cleanup effort would help prevent further decline of remaining vegetation
on-site.
Furthermore, the arborist included various recommendations for each of the 13
hazardous trees, for example Tree #1 is recommended to be removed to a 20-foot (20’)
wildlife snag to mitigate the tree leaning towards the building. According to the
arborist, these trees are in natural areas and can provide valuable habitat when
retained as snags and that by removing only the canopy and leaving a portion of the
trunk standing would maintain ecological benefits by supporting local wildlife, such as
cavity-nesting birds and insects, while eliminating the immediate hazard. Therefore,
as a condition of approval, the applicant shall comply with the snagging
recommendations of the Arborist Report, prepared by A Plus Tree, LLC, dated October
28, 2024, and any future addenda. In addition, the applicant shall restore the disturbed
area with a minimum of three inches (3”) of bark mulch cover (or equivalent) over the
impacted area.
N/A 8. The land clearing and tree removal shall be consistent with the requirement of the
Shoreline Master Program, pursuant to RMC 4-3-090F1, Vegetation Conservation and
RMC 4-4-130, Tree Retention and Land Clearing Regulations.
Staff Comments: Not applicable. The property is not located within shoreline
jurisdiction.
Docusign Envelope ID: 59F72B0D-BA8F-4713-A747-FC3097EE2855Docusign Envelope ID: EDD279AC-74FD-4FA2-8D25-E48BC2D186D7
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development Routine Vegetation Management Permit
Springbrook Apartments Tree Removal LUA25-000007, RVMP
Permit Date: February 6, 2025 Page 5 of 5
LUA25-000007_D_Springbrook Apartments Tree Removal_250206_Final
A Plus Tree, LLC, dated October 28, 2024, and any future addenda.
2. The applicant shall restore the disturbed area with a minimum of three inches (3”) of bark mulch
cover (or equivalent) over the impacted area.
SIGNATURE & DATE OF DECISION:
________________________________________ ____________________________________
Matthew Herrera, Planning Director Date
RECONSIDERATION: Within 14 days of the decision date, any party may request that the decision be
reopened by the approval body. The approval body may modify his decision if material evidence not readily
discoverable prior the original decision is found or if he finds there was misrepresentation of fact. After
review of the reconsideration request, if the approval body finds sufficient evidence to amend the original
decision, there will be no further extension of the appeal period. Any person wishing to take further action
must file a formal appeal within the 14-day appeal time frame.
APPEALS: Appeals of permit issuance must be filed in writing on or before 5:00 p.m. on February 20,
2025. An appeal of the decision must be filed within the 14-day appeal period (RCW 43.21.C.075(3);
WAC 197-11-680). Appeals must be submitted electronically to the City Clerk at cityclerk@rentonwa.gov or
delivered to City Hall 1st floor Lobby Hub Monday through Friday. The appeal fee, normally due at the time
an appeal is submitted, will be collected at a future date if your appeal is submitted electronically. The
appeal submitted in person may be paid on the first floor in our Finance Department. Appeals to the Hearing
Examiner are governed by RMC 4-8-110 and additional information regarding the appeal process may be
obtained from the City Clerk’s Office, cityclerk@rentonwa.gov.
EXPIRATION: The Routine Vegetation Management Permit shall be valid for one year from the date of
issuance. An extension may be granted by the Planning Division for a period of one year upon application by
the property owner or manager. Application for such an extension must be made at least thirty (30) days in
advance of the expiration of the original permit and shall include a statement of justification for the
extension.
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment A: Arborist Report, prepared by A Plus Tree, LLC, dated October 28, 2024
Attachment B: ISA Basic Tree Risk Assessment Forms, dated June 3, 2024
Attachment C: Tree Retention and Credit Worksheet, dated January 21, 2025
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CITY OF RENTON Ι PERMIT SERVICES
TREE RETENTION AND CREDIT WORKSHEET
TREE RETENTION REQUIREMENTS
A minimum retention of thirty percent (30%) of all significant trees (as defined in RMC 4-11-200) is required on site.
Please complete the form below to verify compliance with minimum tree retention requirements.
• Identify total number of trees 6-inch caliper or greater (or alder or
cottonwood trees 8-inch caliper or greater) on site: Trees
Trees
Trees
Trees
Trees
Trees Required
Trees Proposed
•Deductions – Certain trees are excluded from the retention calculation:
o Trees that are high-risk, as defined in RMC 4-11-200:
o Trees within existing and proposed public right-of-way:
o Trees within wetlands, streams, very high landslide hazards,
protected slopes, and associated buffers:
•Total remaining trees after deductions:
•Required tree retention (30%):
•Identify number of trees proposed for retention:
•Identify number of trees requested for replacement in lieu of retention
(skip page 3 if no tree replacement is requested):Trees
TREE CREDIT REQUIREMENTS
Tree credit requirements apply at a minimum rate of thirty (30) credits per net acre. Complete the form below to
determine minimum tree credit requirements.
•Gross area of property in square feet: Square Feet
•Deductions: Certain areas are excluded from tree credit calculation:
o Existing and proposed public right-of-way: Square Feet
o Wetlands, streams, very high landslide hazards, protected slopes,
and associated buffers: Square Feet
•Total excluded area:Square Feet
•Net land area (after deductions) in square feet:Square Feet
•Net land area (after deductions) in acres:Acres
•Required tree credits:Tree Credits Required
Attachment C
RECEIVED
04/23/2025 AWragge
PLANNING DIVISION
348
0
0
24
324
105
323
558,439
0
0
0
558,439
12.8
384
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TREE RETENTION AND CREDIT WORKSHEET
PROPOSED TREE CREDITS
Please complete the table below to calculate the total tree credits proposed for your project. Identify the quantity of trees
for each tree category, after deducting trees within excluded areas, as shown in the previous section.
TREE SIZE TREE CREDITS TREE QUANTITY TOTAL TREE CREDITS
RETAINED TREES
Preserved tree 6 – 9” caliper 4
Preserved tree 10 – 12” caliper 5
Preserved tree 12 – 15” caliper 6
Preserved tree 16 – 18” caliper 7
Preserved tree 19 – 21” caliper 8
Preserved tree 22 – 24” caliper 9
Preserved tree 25 – 28” caliper 10
Preserved tree 29 – 32” caliper 11
Preserved tree 33 – 36” caliper 12
Preserved tree 37” caliper and greater 13
NEW TREES
New small species tree (30' or less at maturity) 0.25
New medium species tree (30' to 50' at maturity) 1
New large species tree (50' or more at maturity) 2
TREE CREDITS PROPOSED:
225
0
73
0
14
0
13
0
1
0
0
0
0
1592
900
0
438
0
112
0
130
0
12
0
0
0
0
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TREE RETENTION AND CREDIT WORKSHEET
TREE REPLACEMENT JUSTIFICATION
Replacement may be authorized as an alternative to 30% retention provided the removal is the minimum necessary to
accomplish the desired purpose and provided the proposal meets one of the following options:
a.There are special circumstances related to the size, shape, topography, location, or surroundings of the subject
property; or
b.The strict application of the code would prevent reasonable use of property; or
c.The strict application of the code would prevent compliance with minimum density requirements of the zone; or
d.The project is a short plat with four (4) or fewer lots.
Please attach a written justification demonstrating compliance with the requirements and criteria as descripted above.
TREE REPLACEMENT QUANTITY
Tree replacement quantity is determined based on the credit value of the trees proposed for removal. Larger, higher
priority trees shall be used for calculation of tree replacement. Identify the quantity of each tree requested to be removed
in lieu of 30% retention, based on tree size. List the identification number of each tree, as indicated in the arborist report.
TREE SIZE TREE CREDITS TREE QUANTITY TREE INDENTIFICATION # TOTAL TREE CREDITS
Tree 37” caliper + 13
Tree 33 – 36” caliper 12
Tree 29 – 32” caliper 11
Tree 25 – 28” caliper 10
Tree 22 – 24” caliper 9
Tree 19 – 21” caliper 8
Tree 16 – 18” caliper 7
Tree 12 – 15” caliper 6
Tree 10 – 12” caliper 5
Tree 6 – 9” caliper 4
REPLACEMENT CREDITS REQUIRED:
TREE REPLACEMENT PLANTING
Identify the quantity of proposed new replacement trees (minimum size of 2-inch caliper). The total replacement credits
proposed should be equal to or greater than the replacement credits required, as shown in the previous section.
TREE SIZE TREE CREDITS TREE QUANTITY TOTAL TREE CREDITS
New small species tree (30' or less at maturity) 0.25
New medium species tree (30' to 50' at maturity) 1
New large species tree (50' or more at maturity) 2
REPLACEMENT CREDITS PROPOSED:
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Docusign Envelope ID: EDD279AC-74FD-4FA2-8D25-E48BC2D186D7