Lacey Planning Commission to hold hearing on tree protection code changes 

The City of Lacey is revisiting its tree protection rules amid more public feedback to the Lacey City Council about tree standards and how regulations are implemented. 

The Lacey Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing on proposed amendments at a meeting on Wednesday, Aug. 26. 

The proposed changes concern Chapter 14.32 of the Lacey Municipal Code, which governs tree and vegetation protection and preservation.

Council members requested a targeted review of tree-related topics identified in the 2026 Community and Economic Development Work Program. 

Lacey last updated Chapter 14.32 through Ordinance 1617 in 2022 following concerns from residents involving tree preservation, tree removal limits, homeowners association maintenance, permit administration and implementation of the 2021 Urban Forest Management Plan. 

The planning commission and city council took part in that review. A tree task force was also formed to examine community feedback and proposed changes to the municipal code, as detailed in a city notice issued on Aug 12. 

However, public discussion continued after the 2022 amendments. According to the city, council members continued receiving feedback about tree standards and code implementation, prompting the current review. 

The Urban Forest Management Plan is scheduled for another update beginning in 2027. Some topics identified during the current review may receive further consideration through that process. 

The review also comes amid recent debate over tree preservation in Lacey. The JOLT reported on Aug. 6 that the city council approved the 2026 sidewalk repair project, which involves significant removal of street trees in Jubilee neighborhood and along Meriwood Drive. The hearing notice does not attribute the current review to the sidewalk project. 

The hearing is open to in-person attendance at Lacey City Hall, City Council Chambers, 420 College St. SE, and will be streamed on the city website and YouTube. Zoom testimony requires preregistration through the meeting agenda. 

Written testimony may also be submitted to Planning@cityoflacey.org or mailed to the Lacey Planning Commission at Lacey City Hall. Submissions received by 3:30 p.m. on Aug. 24 will be included in the public record provided to commissioners.