Urban Forestry

Heritage Tree Program

The City of Spokane's historic and heritage tree preservation program was established as a way for citizens to officially recognize special and significant trees in the community. The City of Spokane believes that by providing this recognition we stay connected to the important historic events that have shaped our past. The program was established in 1998 and procedures to implement the program were established in 2009.

The purpose of the program is to:

• Increase public awareness of trees and specifically Spokane's urban forest
• Draw attention to and protect unique and significant heritage trees
• Reinforce that trees are one of the key components of our City's unique character and sense of place
• Engage citizens with the purpose and activities of the Spokane Urban Forestry Tree Committee (UFTC), the UFTC citizen advisory committee, and the urban forestry program
• Encourage public participation in the identification and perpetuation of heritage trees throughout the City. To view the complete ordinance click here: Spokane Municipal Code Section 12.02.975

A “heritage tree” is a tree or collection of trees that is acknowledged and valued for the unique characteristics that set it apart from other similar trees. A heritage or historic tree is designated by the tree committee based on the following criteria:

• Has historical significance to a person, place, or event
• Has attained significant size in height, caliper, or canopy spread for its age and species
• Has special aesthetic qualities for its species
• Is prominently visible to the public, along major roads, or public places
• Possesses rare horticulture value
• Is not a hazard or obstruction

The owner of the tree agrees in writing to the historic or heritage designation of the tree and has complied with the nomination steps set forth in subsection D of Spokane Municipal Code (SMC) 12.02.975.

How to Nominate a Tree for Historic or Heritage Designation

If you have or know of a special tree or collection of trees to be considered for historic or heritage status, please review the ordinance: Section 12.02.975 and return the Heritage Tree Nomination Form (PDF 109 KB) and Property Owner Agreement Form (PDF 225 KB) to Spokane Urban Forestry at City Hall, 808 W Spokane Falls Blvd, Spokane, WA 99201; or by fax to 509.625.6205. If you have additional questions please contact us at urbanforestry@spokanecity.org or 509.363.5495.