There are many environmental, aesthetic and economic reasons to protect trees.
Trees add to property value, both residential and commercial. Trees are beautiful. They soften the edges and bring green into the urban setting. Trees can frame views and create feelings of relaxation and comfort. They can add tremendously to a neighborhood's quality of life. Trees provide significant environmental benefits.
One acre of trees can remove approximately 13 tons of dust and gases from the atmosphere each year. Trees help prevent soil erosion by slowing rainwater runoff, and also filter and purify the water, ensuring cleaner streams and lakes. Trees also provide habitat for birds and animals.
Learn more about the value of tree canopies, our use of urban forest carbon credits, overall maintenance and, if necessary, tree removal.
The City of Issaquah has been a Tree City USA since 1992.
Issaquah has sustained the honor by meeting the program's requirements: maintaining a tree board or department, a tree-care ordinance, an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita, and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.
Nominate a tree to become one of Issaquah's Heritage Trees.
Heritage Trees have one or more of the following characteristics: size or age not normal for species, historic significance or ecological value.
For information regarding Tree Permits, see the Tree Permits page.
For a list of the City's approved street trees, see the Master Street Tree List.