Tacoma's New Urban Forest Manual: What Developers and Homeowners Need to Know
Critical Updates That Will Impact Your Next Tacoma Project
Tacoma's 2025 Urban Forest Manual introduces significant changes to property development in the city. As an architect who transforms complex regulations into opportunities for both developers and homeowners, I help clients create spaces that maximize value while reflecting their unique vision—whether that's optimizing a development project or crafting a custom home that perfectly aligns with how you want to live.
The Facts: What's Changed and What It Means for Your Vision
Tree Canopy Requirements
Urban Residential 1 (UR-1): 30% coverage required
Urban Residential 2 (UR-2): 25% coverage required
Urban Residential 3 (UR-3): 20% coverage required
Each property presents unique opportunities within these requirements
Protected Trees
Trees 24" or larger in diameter cannot be removed without proving significant development limitations
Mandatory protection measures during construction
Specific soil volume requirements for new trees
Site-specific characteristics shape possible approaches
Financial Implications
Tree removal fees based on diameter
Tree credit fees for insufficient canopy coverage
Potential cost savings through tree retention incentives
Early planning can help optimize outcomes
Smart Solutions for Developers
Every development project has unique characteristics. Effective approaches include:
Strategic Tree Banking
Plant required trees on separate properties within the same watershed
Utilize public spaces through city partnerships
Maintain site flexibility while meeting requirements
2. Cost-Effective Compliance
Front-load tree planning to avoid mid-project adjustments
Leverage existing trees where beneficial
Develop site-specific retention strategies
3. Density Optimization
Consider parking requirement trade-offs
Explore height bonus opportunities
Balance buildable area with canopy requirements
Custom Home Solutions
Each home represents distinct needs and preferences. Consider how:
Value-Adding Integration
Work with natural site features
Create private, sheltered outdoor spaces
Preserve mature trees where beneficial
2. Design Flexibility
Explore setback reduction opportunities
Consider height allowance options
Adapt parking requirements thoughtfully
The Practical Advantage
Success under these new regulations comes from:
Understanding your project's specific needs
Identifying how regulations affect your goals
Developing appropriate compliance strategies
Finding opportunities within requirements
A Thoughtful Approach
Every successful project starts with:
Learning about your specific vision
Analyzing site conditions and opportunities
Understanding regulatory impacts
Developing solutions that work for you
Moving Forward
Before finalizing development plans, you must know:
How these requirements specifically affect your project
What challenges your site might present
Which opportunities align with your goals
Which approaches best suit your needs
Let's Start with Understanding Your Project
The success of your project depends on how well these new requirements align with your specific goals. During an initial consultation, we can:
Review your property's existing conditions
Discuss your vision and objectives
Identify potential challenges and opportunities
Outline possible approaches
Contact me at am@andrewmikhael.com to schedule a consultation. This important first step will help ensure your project moves forward efficiently while working harmoniously with these new regulations.
Remember: Each project is unique. The regulations and zone you’re in are just the beginning. Avoid surprises during permitting. Let's start with a conversation about your vision and how we can bring it to life within Tacoma's new guidelines.