Bill > HB1153

This bill addresses urban forest management and housing development by establishing a framework for local governments to create tree bank programs while supporting housing growth. The legislation recognizes the current housing shortage and aims to balance the preservation of tree canopy with the need for housing development. It requires the Department of Natural Resources to develop model regulations that define a "tree bank" as an area where trees can be planted to compensate for tree removals elsewhere, potentially including fee-based alternatives to physical tree planting. The bill provides guidance for local governments to create urban forestry ordinances that include tree bank programs, with specific criteria such as identifying priority regions for tree planting, determining appropriate tree replacement ratios, and selecting tree species. Importantly, the bill prohibits local jurisdictions from requiring tree retention if it would significantly impede housing development, such as reducing allowed housing density or preventing middle housing construction. The legislation also creates an optional grant program for cities and counties that adopt the model urban forestry ordinances, with additional incentives for larger jurisdictions that implement tree retention strategies. The overall intent is to provide a flexible approach that supports both urban forest preservation and housing development, recognizing the environmental and community benefits of maintaining green spaces while addressing housing needs.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1153&Year=2025&Initiative=false