Q. What do I do if a tree or limb is blocking a street?
A.If a public or private tree or branch from a tree falls onto a public street and is impeding traffic, it should be reported to the Parks and Recreation Department at 425.831.5784 or to the Snoqualmie Police Department by calling the non-emergency number, 425.888.3333. The first priority will be to open up blocked roads. Depending upon the size of the tree or limb, and if there other streets blocked as a result of a severe weather event, the brush, logs and debris may be moved to the side of the road until the first priorities are completed.

Q. What if a tree or limb falls onto power lines?
A.Please report any trees or branches on power lines to Puget Sound Energy at 1.888.321.7779. Do not attempt to remove the tree or branch. During severe weather events, it may take several hours for the power company to respond.

Q. What if a City tree or limb falls onto my property?
A. Trees and/or tree limbs from City trees that have fallen onto public or private property should be reported to the Parks and Recreation Department at 425.831.5784. The Department will determine what actions are required. Trees and tree limbs that are blocking access to private property will be removed by City tree crews or contracted tree services on an emergency basis. Materials that have fallen onto private property but are not impeding access will be removed as soon as possible after all emergencies have been addressed. Response time will depend upon the number of calls received during a severe weather event.

Q. When is a tree considered "protected"?
A. Trees that were preserved in an original subdivision, located in a native growth protection area (e.g., greenbelt), or sensitive area buffer (e.g., wetland, stream or steep slope) are usually considered "protected."   A representative from the City of Snoqualmie’s Planning Department can help clarify this. Protected trees also include “significant” trees, as defined in the City’s Municipal Code (SMC 15.20.020U).  A protected tree may be identified as an individual, isolated tree or as part of a cluster. A protected tree generally may not be removed unless it is proven hazardous.

Q. When is a tree considered hazardous?
A. A tree that is dead or is so affected by a significant structural defect or disease that falling or failure appears imminent and would pose a threat to life or property is considered hazardous.  There may be specific requirements or restrictions that apply, such as photos, an arborist's report or a consultation/site visit by City staff, to support a finding that a protected tree is hazardous.

Q. How do you know what is a "landmark" tree?
A. The Parks and Recreation Director will maintain a register of trees designated as landmark trees because of association with historic figures or events, rarity or extraordinary aesthetic value. A landmark tree generally may not be removed unless it is proven hazardous. The City of Snoqualmie’s current landmark tree program only designates such trees on public—not private—property.

Q. What is the City’s plan for maintaining trees along streets and in parks?
A. City personnel are maintaining trees in public rights-of-way to the best of their abilities. However, with budgetary limitations, there is always more that can be done. We encourage property owners to help by watering newly planted trees and helping keep the gratings weed free by pulling weeds and using mulch. Do not use plant-killing chemicals around a tree since it is dangerous to the tree’s health. Please contact the Parks and Recreation Department if you see any signs of disease or damage to streets in planting strips or parks.

Q. What about routine pruning and maintenance of a tree?
A. Pruning will be scheduled throughout the year on a street-by-street, park-by-park basis as staff time and resources allow with the majority of work occurring during the winter months. The Parks Maintenance staff will respond to requests by individuals with concerns regarding specific trees. Inspections will be made and work scheduled as needed. Contact Parks Crew Chief Larry T. White with the Parks Department with any questions or concerns you may have a bout a specific tree.