HomeMy WebLinkAboutD_1700 NE 20th St Tree Removal _20260204DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY
AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Routine Vegetation Management Permit and Critical Areas Exemption
PLANNING DIVISION
ROUTINE VEGETATION MANAGEMENT PERMIT
AND CERTIFICATE OF EXEMPTION FROM
CRITICAL AREA REGULATIONS
EVALUATION FORM & DECISION
DATE OF DECISION: February 4, 2026
PROJECT NUMBER: LUA26-000027, RVMP, CAE
PROJECT NAME: 1700 NE 20th St Tree Removal
PROJECT MANAGER: Maya Simon, AICP, Associate Planner
APPLICANT/CONTACT: David Coulombe
1712 NE 20th St, Renton, WA 98056
OWNER: Robert and Deanna Dobak
1700 NE 20th St, Renton, WA 98056
PROJECT LOCATION: 1700 NE 20th St, Renton, WA 98056 (APN 3343903560)
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The applicant, David Coulombe, is requesting a Routine Vegetation Management
Permit (RVMP) and an exemption from critical areas regulations (CAE) to remove one
(1) Black Cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa) tree located at 1700 NE 20th St (APN
3343903560). The subject property is approximately 18,600 square feet (0.43 acres),
zoned Residential-4 (R-4), and is within the Kennydale Community Planning Area. Per
the City of Renton (COR) Maps, the property has sensitive and protected slopes onsite
and is within Zone 2 of the Wellhead Protection Area of Well 5A. Adjacent parcels
contain a wetland and a Type Ns stream (Kennydale Creek).
According to the Arborist Report, prepared by Sound Tree Care LLC, dated January 3,
2026 (Attachment A), a Black Cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa) is 41 inches in
diameter at breast height (dbh) and has a dying canopy with a recent fallen branch
which damaged a residence. Additionally, the root system is close to the residence and
in easily saturated soil which could result in uprooting the tree. The fall zone includes
two residences, parked vehicles, overhead utility lines, and a public roadway. The ISA
Certified Arborist, Eric Ledford, recommends removal of the high-risk tree to mitigate
the ongoing damage and likelihood of tree failure in the future.
CRITICAL AREAS: Sensitive slopes, protected slopes, Wellhead Protection Area Zone 2, wetlands (off-
site), and Type Ns stream (off-site).
Docusign Envelope ID: A494784E-A658-487C-B2F8-DF6C096819B0
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development Routine Vegetation Management Permit
1700 NE 20th Street Tree Removal LUA26-000027, RVMP, CAE
Permit Date: February 4, 2026 Page 2 of 5
Routine Vegetation Management Permit and Critical Areas Exemption
EXEMPTION
JUSTIFICATION: Renton Municipal Code (RMC) exempts certain activities from critical areas
regulations. RMC 4-3-050C.3 states “Activities taking place in critical areas and their
associated buffers and listed in the [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.” The table shows removal of a
high-risk tree approved by the city, and certified dangerous by a licensed landscape
architect or certified arborist, as allowed in Geologically Hazardous Areas (which
includes sensitive and protected slopes), Wellhead Protection Areas, Streams, and
Wetlands.
ROUTINE VEGETATION MANAGEMENT REVIEW CRITERIA 4-9-195D.4:
YES 1. The lot shall comply with minimum tree credit requirements pursuant to RMC 4-4-130, Tree
Retention and Land Clearing Regulations.
Staff Comments: In accordance with RMC 4-4-130H.1.b, the minimum tree credit rate is 30
credits per net acre. Based on the property size, the subject property requires 13 tree credits
(30 credits per acre x 0.43 acres = 12.9 credits). According to the Tree Retention and Tree Credit
Worksheet (Attachment B), four trees are proposed to be retained, totaling 31 tree credits. The
31 tree credits proposed for retention exceed the minimum tree credit requirements and would
maintain the minimum tree density after removal of the Black Cottonwood.
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 COR Maps, the subject property contains sensitive and
protected slopes, a Wellhead Protection Area (Zone 2), and is adjacent to a property which
contains wetlands and a stream. The Black Cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa) proposed for
removal is outside of the steep slopes and the buffer for Type Ns stream (Kennydale Creek), so
those do not apply to this permit. The tree proposed for removal is within Wellhead Protection
Area Zone 2 and potentially buffers for the wetland to the north (wetland characteristics and
category, which determine buffer width, have not been evaluated for this permit). However,
removal of high-risk trees can be exempted from critical areas regulations per RMC 4-3-050C.3
(see exemption below). The arborist report (Attachment A) describes high to severe risk for both
branch failure and tree uprooting, and states that pruning is not sufficient due to existing decay
and root concerns. A CAE certificate is included as part of this decision.
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 a high-risk tree; or
ii. The tree is causing obvious physical damage to buildings (over two hundred (200)
square feet), driveways, parking lots, or utilities, and it can be demonstrated to the
Administrator’s satisfaction that no reasonable alternatives to tree removal exists,
including tree root pruning, tree root barriers, tree cabling, or preventive 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
Docusign Envelope ID: A494784E-A658-487C-B2F8-DF6C096819B0
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development Routine Vegetation Management Permit
1700 NE 20th Street Tree Removal LUA26-000027, RVMP, CAE
Permit Date: February 4, 2026 Page 3 of 5
Routine Vegetation Management Permit and Critical Areas Exemption
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: According to RMC 4-11-200AA.2, black cottonwoods with a caliper of 30
inches or more are considered landmark trees. The black cottonwood tree proposed for
removal has a caliper of 41 inches, classifying it as a landmark tree. The arborist report
(Attachment A) rates the tree’s branch failure risk as high-to-severe due to a dying canopy
located over the primary residence, with history of fallen branches damaging the residence. It
also rates whole-tree failure risk as high due to exposed roots in easily saturated soils and a
natural lean towards public utilities and the public roadway.
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.
N/A 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: Not applicable. The tree removal is in the front yard of an R-4-zoned property
adjacent to other R-4-zoned properties.
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.
Staff Comments: The submitted Arborist Report and ISA Basic Tree Risk Assessment Form
(Attachment C) did not indicate that the removal of the tree would create or contribute to a
hazardous condition.
YES 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: The property is not subject to the requirements of the Shoreline Master
Program. The proposed tree removal is consistent with tree retention and land clearing
regulations.
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;
Docusign Envelope ID: A494784E-A658-487C-B2F8-DF6C096819B0
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development Routine Vegetation Management Permit
1700 NE 20th Street Tree Removal LUA26-000027, RVMP, CAE
Permit Date: February 4, 2026 Page 4 of 5
Routine Vegetation Management Permit and Critical Areas Exemption
Staff Comments: Removal of dangerous trees is not prohibited by any federal regulations,
and it is an exempt activity in the City’s critical areas regulations. Approval of this exemption
would act as written permission to allow 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 Arborist Report (Attachment A) recommends that the tree removal
be performed by a qualified and insured tree service. The tree proposed for removal may be
within an undetermined wetland buffer, but as there is existing development between the
tree and the wetland, complete removal of the tree is not expected to impact the ecological
function of the wetland.
YES iii. Impacts are minimized and, where applicable, disturbed areas are immediately restored;
Staff Comments: Impact of removing the black cottonwood should be minimal and no
mitigation is proposed.
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 removal is approximately 130 feet from wetlands
as measured in COR Maps. The wetland characteristics and category, which determine
buffer width, have not been evaluated. There is existing development between the wetlands
and the subject tree. As removal of this high-risk tree is not expected to impact the
ecological function of the wetland, no revegetation is proposed.
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.
Staff Comments: Not applicable. The proposal does not include a significant or substantial
potential to degrade groundwater quality.
DECISION: The 1700 NE 20th St Tree Removal Routine Vegetation Management Permit and Critical Areas
Exemption, LUA26-000027, RVMP, CAE is Approved.
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
Docusign Envelope ID: A494784E-A658-487C-B2F8-DF6C096819B0
2/4/2026 | 9:19 AM PST
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development Routine Vegetation Management Permit
1700 NE 20th Street Tree Removal LUA26-000027, RVMP, CAE
Permit Date: February 4, 2026 Page 5 of 5
Routine Vegetation Management Permit and Critical Areas Exemption
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 18, 2026. 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 Eric Ledford, dated January 3, 2026
Attachment B: Tree Retention and Tree Credit Worksheet
Attachment C: Basic Tree Risk Assessment Form, dated January 2, 2026
Docusign Envelope ID: A494784E-A658-487C-B2F8-DF6C096819B0
Eric Ledford
Sound Tree Care LLC
Jan 3, 2026 | 12 Photos
Arborist Report
Cover Page 1 / 11 Dave Coulomb - Arborist Report
Attachment A
RECEIVED
01/15/2026 jcisneros
PLANNING DIVISIONDocusign Envelope ID: A494784E-A658-487C-B2F8-DF6C096819B0
Arborist Report Jan 3, 2026
Qualifications and Methodology
Arborist Credentials & Professional Experience
Observations and recommendations are based on extensive experience as a professional arborist
working across urban forestry, tree risk assessment, site development, and tree health management.
Professional Certifications:
• ISA Certified Arborist
• ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualified (TRAQ)
• NUCA Dig Safe Certified
With years of field-based experience, I regularly provide:
• Tree risk evaluations and hazard mitigation
• Tree preservation guidance for residential, commercial, and municipal projects
• Compliance support for local tree codes and permitting
• Practical solutions for managing trees in built environments
This background ensures a balanced approach to tree care, risk management, and regulatory
compliance — grounded in industry standards and real-world application.
Qualifications and Methodology 2 / 11 Dave Coulomb
RECEIVED
01/15/2026 jcisneros
PLANNING DIVISIONDocusign Envelope ID: A494784E-A658-487C-B2F8-DF6C096819B0
Arborist Report Jan 3, 2026
ARBORIST REPORT & TREE RISK ASSESSMENT
Property Address:
1712 NE 20th St
Renton, WA 98056
Client:
Dave Coulomb
Prepared By:
Eric Ledford
ISA Certified Arborist PN-9290A
ISA Qualified Tree Risk Assessor (TRAQ)
Sound Tree Care LLC
Date of Assessment:
January 2, 2026
Job Number:
2248
PURPOSE OF REPORT
The purpose of this arborist report is to:
• Evaluate the condition and risk associated with a mature cottonwood tree located on the subject
property
• Document observed structural defects, failure history, and site conditions
• Provide a Tree Risk Assessment aligned with ISA TRAQ methodology
• Support tree inventory and tree credit calculation requirements for the City of Renton
SITE DESCRIPTION & HISTORY
• The property is located within an established residential neighborhood
• The lot appears to have been historically more heavily wooded
• Multiple stumps from prior tree removals were observed throughout the site
• Past removals indicate ongoing tree management issues and canopy reduction over time
• Current trees are growing in a modified environment with increased wind exposure
• The site transitions from a relatively flat upper yard to a steep downslope beyond the residence
• Downslope soils are susceptible to saturation during prolonged rainfall events
TREE INVENTORY (FOR TREE CREDIT CALCULATION)
Tree ID: T-1
RECEIVED
01/15/2026 jcisneros
PLANNING DIVISIONDocusign Envelope ID: A494784E-A658-487C-B2F8-DF6C096819B0
• Species: Black Cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa)
• Diameter at Standard Height (DSH): 41 inches
• Approximate Height: 115 feet
• Canopy Position: Dominant
• Location: Rear yard, downslope of primary residence
Tree ID: T-2
• Species: Bigleaf Maple (Acer macrophyllum)
• Structure: Multi-stem
• DSH Measurements:
Stem A: 18 inches
Stem B: 22 inches
• Approximate Height: 52 feet
• Canopy Position: Co-dominant
• Location: Between residential structures
Tree ID: T-3
• Species: Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii)
• Diameter at Standard Height (DSH): 46 inches
• Approximate Height: Not measured
• Canopy Position: Dominant
• Condition: Excellent
• Notes:
Tree exhibits strong structure and high vigor
No significant defects observed at time of inspection
Included in inventory for tree credit calculation only
No mitigation or removal recommended
Tree ID: T-4
• Species: Paper Birch (Betula papyrifera)
• Diameter at Standard Height (DSH): 6 inches
• Approximate Height: Not measured
• Canopy Position: Sub-dominant
• Condition: Fair
• Notes:
Minor dieback typical for species observed
No immediate hazard concerns identified
Included for tree credit calculation
Tree ID: T-5
• Species: Paper Birch (Betula papyrifera)
• Diameter at Standard Height (DSH): 6 inches
• Approximate Height: Not measured
RECEIVED
01/15/2026 jcisneros
PLANNING DIVISIONDocusign Envelope ID: A494784E-A658-487C-B2F8-DF6C096819B0
• Canopy Position: Sub-dominant
• Condition: Good
• Notes:
Appears structurally sound at time of inspection
Included for tree credit calculation
SITE CONDITIONS
• Tree T-1 is located near the top of a slope that drops steeply beyond the residence
• Multiple surface roots were observed downslope of Tree T-1
• Soil depth appears limited on the slope, increasing susceptibility to root plate instability
• Tree canopy extends directly over the residence and gutter line
• Additional targets are located within one tree height downslope
• Overhead utility lines are present between the tree and downslope targets
• A public roadway is located in the direction of the tree’s natural lean
TREE CONDITION ASSESSMENT – TREE T-1 (COTTONWOOD)
Canopy & Crown Condition
• Progressive dieback observed in the upper canopy
• Decline appears to be occurring from the top down
• Multiple dead and dying canopy stems present in the upper crown
• Bark sloughing and long-term deadwood observed on several canopy stems
• Numerous hanging branches observed throughout the canopy, including:
Branches approximately 6–8 inches in diameter at the base
Estimated lengths of 20–40 feet
• Crown condition is declining and structurally compromised
Trunk & Structural Condition
• No full trunk failure observed at the time of inspection
• Multiple large scaffold unions support dead and dying canopy stems
• Structural loading is uneven due to canopy loss and retained deadwood
Root System & Soil Interaction
• Numerous surface roots exposed on the downslope side of the tree
• Roots observed in close proximity to the residence foundation
• Root intrusion risk is present and ongoing
• Root plate stability is compromised under saturated soil conditions
• Root-related impacts are not fully represented within TRAQ defect categories and are document-
ed narratively in this report
DOCUMENTED FAILURE HISTORY
• A large branch recently failed from Tree T-1
• The failed branch struck the residence, damaging and detaching the gutter
• The branch broke into multiple pieces upon impact, indicating advanced decay and brittleness
RECEIVED
01/15/2026 jcisneros
PLANNING DIVISIONDocusign Envelope ID: A494784E-A658-487C-B2F8-DF6C096819B0
• Additional fallen branches observed on the ground near the residence
TARGET ASSESSMENT
Targets located within the fall zone and impact area include:
• Primary residence directly beneath the canopy and dripline
• Neighboring residence downslope
• Vehicles parked approximately 87 feet from the trunk
• Overhead utility lines
• Public roadway located downslope
If failure occurs in the direction of the tree’s natural lean, potential impacts include:
• Damage to overhead utilities
• Impact to vehicles and residential structures
• Obstruction of the public roadway
• Temporary loss of access for residents and emergency vehicles
Targets are considered high-value, frequently occupied, and include public infrastructure.
FAILURE MODES IDENTIFIED
Two distinct failure modes are present and must be evaluated independently.
Branch Failure Mode
• Progressive canopy dieback is ongoing
• Multiple dead and dying canopy stems remain
• Active branch failure has already occurred
• Additional branch failures are expected
Whole-Tree Failure Mode
• Cottonwood is a species with a known propensity for whole-tree failure
• Tree is located on a slope with exposed and compromised roots
• Soil saturation and high wind events significantly increase uprooting risk
• Whole-tree failure would result in multiple simultaneous impacts
TREE RISK ASSESSMENT (TRAQ)
Branch Failure Scenario
• Likelihood of Failure: Probable
• Likelihood of Impact: Very Likely
• Consequences of Failure: Severe
Risk Rating: High to Severe
Whole-Tree Failure Scenario
RECEIVED
01/15/2026 jcisneros
PLANNING DIVISIONDocusign Envelope ID: A494784E-A658-487C-B2F8-DF6C096819B0
• Likelihood of Failure: Possible to Likely
• Likelihood of Impact: Very Likely
• Consequences of Failure: Severe to Catastrophic
Risk Rating: High
LIMITATIONS OF TRAQ CODING
• Root intrusion and proximity to foundations are not fully captured within TRAQ defect categories
• Although surface roots are noted, the structural and infrastructural impacts of root intrusion must
be documented narratively
• These conditions materially increase long-term risk and influence mitigation recommendations
CONCLUSIONS
• Tree T-1 (cottonwood) is in advanced decline with active and ongoing branch failure
• Progressive canopy dieback significantly increases near-term risk
• Whole-tree failure is a credible scenario given species characteristics, slope, and soil conditions
• Targets include residences, vehicles, utilities, and a public roadway
• The risk posed by this tree cannot be adequately mitigated through pruning alone
RECOMMENDATIONS
• Removal of the cottonwood tree (Tree T-1) is recommended to mitigate unacceptable risk
• Pruning or partial mitigation is not sufficient due to:
Advanced canopy decline
Multiple dead and dying canopy stems
Root instability and intrusion concerns
• Tree removal should be performed by a qualified and insured tree service
• Replacement planting and tree credit calculations should be completed in accordance with City
of Renton requirements
ARBORIST REPORT & TREE RISK ASSESSMENT 7 / 11 Dave Coulomb
RECEIVED
01/15/2026 jcisneros
PLANNING DIVISIONDocusign Envelope ID: A494784E-A658-487C-B2F8-DF6C096819B0
Arborist Report Jan 3, 2026
1 Subject tree 46" DSH Cottonwood
Project: Dave Coulomb
Date: Jan 2, 2026, 11:31 AM
Creator: Eric Ledford
2 progressive dieback in upper canopy
Project: Dave Coulomb
Date: Jan 2, 2026, 11:32 AM
Creator: Eric Ledford
3
hangars in low canopy
Project: Dave Coulomb
Date: Jan 2, 2026, 11:33 AM
Creator: Eric Ledford
4
distance from neighbors parking
Project: Dave Coulomb
Date: Jan 2, 2026, 11:36 AM
Creator: Eric Ledford
ARBORIST REPORT & TREE RISK ASSESSMENT 8 / 11 Dave Coulomb
RECEIVED
01/15/2026 jcisneros
PLANNING DIVISIONDocusign Envelope ID: A494784E-A658-487C-B2F8-DF6C096819B0
Arborist Report Jan 3, 2026
5 canopy lacking balance
Project: Dave Coulomb
Date: Jan 2, 2026, 11:37 AM
Creator: Eric Ledford
6 surface roots
Project: Dave Coulomb
Date: Jan 2, 2026, 11:38 AM
Creator: Eric Ledford
7
surface roots
Project: Dave Coulomb
Date: Jan 2, 2026, 11:38 AM
Creator: Eric Ledford
8
Project: Dave Coulomb
Date: Jan 2, 2026, 11:39 AM
Creator: Eric Ledford
ARBORIST REPORT & TREE RISK ASSESSMENT 9 / 11 Dave Coulomb
RECEIVED
01/15/2026 jcisneros
PLANNING DIVISIONDocusign Envelope ID: A494784E-A658-487C-B2F8-DF6C096819B0
Arborist Report Jan 3, 2026
9
Project: Dave Coulomb
Date: Jan 2, 2026, 11:39 AM
Creator: Eric Ledford
10 Damage from falling tree limbs
Project: Dave Coulomb
Date: Jan 2, 2026, 11:39 AM
Creator: Eric Ledford
11
Project: Dave Coulomb
Date: Jan 2, 2026, 11:40 AM
Creator: Eric Ledford
12
Root Intrusion
Project: Dave Coulomb
Date: Jan 2, 2026, 11:40 AM
Creator: Eric Ledford
ARBORIST REPORT & TREE RISK ASSESSMENT 10 / 11 Dave Coulomb
RECEIVED
01/15/2026 jcisneros
PLANNING DIVISIONDocusign Envelope ID: A494784E-A658-487C-B2F8-DF6C096819B0
Arborist Report Jan 3, 2026
Certification Statement
Certification Statement
Certification:
I, Eric B. Ledford, Certify to the best of my knowledge:
1. Statements of fact in this report are true and correct.
2. Analysis, opinions, and conclusions are limited to reported assumptions and conditions. They are
my unbiased professional analysis, opinions, and conclusions.
3. I have no interest in the property or trees that are the subject of this report. I have no personal
interest or bias regarding the parties involved.
4. My analysis, opinions and conclusions reflect conformity with ANSI A300 BMP and Industry
Standards.
5. The report is based on information known at the time of assessment. If more information becomes
available, I may have more or different opinions.
6. The report is based on the analysis at the time of the assessment and covers only that time frame.
Thank you for contacting Sound Tree Care LLC for your arboricultural needs.
Eric B. Ledford, ISA Certified Arborist PN-9290A, Qualified Tree Risk Assessor
Certification Statement 11 / 11 Dave Coulomb
RECEIVED
01/15/2026 jcisneros
PLANNING DIVISIONDocusign Envelope ID: A494784E-A658-487C-B2F8-DF6C096819B0
rentonwa.gov/permitservices | planningcustomerservice@rentonwa.gov | 425-430-7294 10/24/2023 Page 1 of 3
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 B
RECEIVED
01/15/2026 jcisneros
PLANNING DIVISION
5
1
4
2
4
0
19130
0
19130
.44
13
Docusign Envelope ID: A494784E-A658-487C-B2F8-DF6C096819B0
rentonwa.gov/permitservices | planningcustomerservice@rentonwa.gov | 425-430-7294 10/24/2023 Page 2 of 3
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:
RECEIVED
01/15/2026 jcisneros
PLANNING DIVISION
2
1
1
31
8
0
0
0
0
0
10
0
0
13
0
0
0
Docusign Envelope ID: A494784E-A658-487C-B2F8-DF6C096819B0
rentonwa.gov/permitservices | planningcustomerservice@rentonwa.gov | 425-430-7294 10/24/2024 Page 3 of 3
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:
RECEIVED
01/15/2026 jcisneros
PLANNING DIVISION
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Docusign Envelope ID: A494784E-A658-487C-B2F8-DF6C096819B0
— Trunk —
— Crown and Branches —
— Roots and Root Collar —
Unbalanced crown LCR ______%
Dead twigs/branches ____% overall Max. dia. ______
Broken/Hangers Number __________ Max. dia. ______
Over-extended branches
Pruning history
Crown cleaned
Reduced
Flush cuts
Thinned
Topped
Other
Raised
Lion-tailed
Cracks ___________________________________ Lightning damage
Codominant __________________________________ Included bark
Weak attachments ___________________ Cavity/Nest hole ____% circ.
Previous branch failures _______________ Similar branches present
Dead/Missing bark Cankers/Galls/Burls Sapwood damage/decay
Conks Heartwood decay ________________________
Response growth
Collar buried/Not visible Depth________ Stem girdling
Dead Decay Conks/Mushrooms
Ooze Cavity _____% circ.
Cracks Cut/Damaged roots Distance from trunk _______
Root plate lifting Soil weakness
Response growth
Main concern(s)
Load on defect N/A Minor Moderate Significant
Dead/Missing bark Abnormal bark texture/color
Codominant stems Included bark Cracks
Sapwood damage/decay Cankers/Galls/Burls Sap ooze
Lightning damage Heartwood decay Conks/Mushrooms
Cavity/Nest hole _____ % circ. Depth _______ Poor taper
Lean _____° Corrected? ________________________________
Response growth
Main concern(s)
Load on defect N/A Minor Moderate Significant
Client _______________________________________________________________ Date___________________ Time_________________
Address/Tree location _________________________________________________________ Tree no.____________ Sheet _____ of _____
Tree species _________________________________________ dbh_____________ Height ___________ Crown spread dia. ____________
Assessor(s) __________________________________________ Time frame_____________ Tools used______________________________
Target Assessment
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Target description
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History of failures _____________________________________________________________ Topography Flat Slope _________% Aspect _____
Site changes None Grade change Site clearing Changed soil hydrology Root cuts Describe _____________________________________
Soil conditions Limited volume Saturated Shallow Compacted Pavement over roots ______% Describe __________________________
Prevailing wind direction______ Common weather Strong winds Ice Snow Heavy rain Describe______________________________
Tree Health and Species Profile
Vigor Low Normal High Foliage None (seasonal) None (dead) Normal _____% Chlorotic _____% Necrotic _____%
Pests_____________________________________________________ Abiotic ________________________________________________________
Species failure profile Branches Trunk Roots Describe ____________________________________________________________________
Load Factors
Wind exposure Protected Partial Full Wind funneling ________________________ Relative crown size Small Medium Large
Crown density Sparse Normal Dense Interior branches Few Normal Dense Vines/Mistletoe/Moss _____________________
Recent or planned change in load factors ________________________________________________________________________________________ _
Tree Defects and Conditions Affecting the Likelihood of Failure
Occupancy
rate
1–rare
2 – occasional
3 – frequent
4 – constant
Likelihood of failureLikelihood of failure
Basic Tree Risk Assessment Form
Page 1 of 2
Site Factors
Target zone
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Main concern(s)
Load on defect N/A Minor Moderate Significant
Likelihood of failure Improbable Possible Probable Imminent
Improbable Possible Probable Imminent Improbable Possible Probable Imminent
Attachment C
RECEIVED
01/15/2026 jcisneros
PLANNING DIVISION
Dave Coulomb 1/2/26 1! AM
1712 NE 20th St Renton, WA 98056 1 of 1 1 2
Black Cottonwood Populus trichocarpa 41 115 45
Eric Ledford ISA Certified Arborist PN-9290A
Dead upper canopy
Puget Sound
hillside
No No
long term
4
4
4
4
n
n
1712 NE 20th St Renton, WA 98056
n n
n
4
1715 NE 20th St Renton, WA 98056 4
Utility Primaries and Public Roadway 4
Vehicles and people within these areas 3
Observed and Documented
n
n
4
SSW n n n
n n
None Observed
n n n
n n
n
4 ivy on trunk bottom
n
No
No
20
66
6"
4 4"
West15
No
No
No No
n
None Observed
Dead branches and stems falling from tree
n
n
n
None Observed
and increased whole tree when soil is saturated
surface roots/hillside = limited soil volume
n
n
Docusign Envelope ID: A494784E-A658-487C-B2F8-DF6C096819B0
1
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4
Matrix 1. Likelihood matrix.
Likelihood
of Failure
Likelihood of Impacting Target
Very low Low Medium High
Imminent Unlikely Somewhat likely Likely Very likely
Probable Unlikely Unlikely Somewhat likely Likely
Possible Unlikely Unlikely Unlikely Somewhat likely
Improbable Unlikely Unlikely Unlikely Unlikely
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Target
protection
Conditions
of concern
Failure Impact Failure & Impact
(from Matrix 1)
Likelihood
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Consequences
Risk
rating
of part
(from
Matrix 2)Tree part
Likelihood of
Failure & Impact
Consequences of Failure
Negligible Minor Significant Severe
Very likely Low Moderate High Extreme
Likely Low Moderate High High
Somewhat likely Low Low Moderate Moderate
Unlikely Low Low Low Low
Data Final Preliminary Advanced assessment needed No Yes-Type/Reason ________________________________________________
Inspection limitations None Visibility Access Vines Root collar buried Describe ___________________________________________
Notes, explanations, descriptions
Mitigation options _____________________________________________________________________ Residual risk ________
____________________________________________________________________________________ Residual risk ________
____________________________________________________________________________________ Residual risk ________
____________________________________________________________________________________ Residual risk ________
Overall tree risk rating Low Moderate High Extreme Work priority 1 2 3 4
Overall residual risk Low Moderate High Extreme Recommended inspection interval __________________
is datasheet was produced by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and is intended for use by Tree Risk Assessment Qualied (TRAQ) arborists – 2013
North
Page 2 of 2
Matrix 2. Risk rating matrix.
Risk Categorization
Ta
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RECEIVED
01/15/2026 jcisneros
PLANNING DIVISION
80'2,3 None
HighCrown and
Branches
115'
115'115'2,3
1,4
25'1,4 None
25'
80'Several dead stems
in upper
canopy/hangars
Roots and
Collar
Surface roots/limited
soil volume
115'
Low
Low
Moderate
Active branch failure has been
documented, with multiple dead and dying canopy stems present.
Branches have fallen onto adjacent property, causing damage and
demonstrating an ongoing likelihood of failure. Mitigation through
pruning would require excessive canopy removal, which would further accelerate decline and would not adequately reduce risk; removal is recommended.
NoneTree Removal and Stump Grind, replanting if required by code
n n
n
n
n vines obstructed collar visibility
Docusign Envelope ID: A494784E-A658-487C-B2F8-DF6C096819B0