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Bill

HB 1153

Concerning urban forest management ordinances.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by April Berg and 5 co-sponsors

HB 1153 establishes statewide standards for local urban forest management ordinances to govern tree preservation, removal, and planting in Washington communities.

Executive session scheduled, but no action was taken in the House Committee on Agriculture & Natural Resources at 10:30 AM.
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Bill Summary · HB 1153

Legislative bill overview

HB 1153 establishes standards and requirements for urban forest management ordinances that local jurisdictions in Washington can adopt to govern tree preservation, planting, and removal in developed areas. The bill provides a framework for cities and counties to create consistent policies around urban forestry practices, including tree canopy goals and development standards.

Why is this important

Urban forests provide measurable public benefits including stormwater management, air quality improvement, heat island reduction, and property value enhancement. Standardized ordinances help ensure equitable access to these benefits across communities while giving local governments clear authority and guidelines for forest management decisions that affect neighborhood livability and environmental resilience.

Potential points of contention

  • Developer compliance costs: Construction and development industries may oppose requirements that limit tree removal or mandate replanting, citing increased project costs and timeline delays
  • Local autonomy versus state standards: Tension between establishing statewide consistency and allowing municipalities flexibility to tailor ordinances to regional climate, soil, and species conditions
  • Enforcement and funding: Unclear who bears costs for monitoring compliance, conducting tree surveys, and maintaining newly planted trees, particularly in resource-limited municipalities

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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