SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 5162

                    As of January 23, 1997

Title:  An act relating to removal of vegetation.

Brief Description:  Authorizing property owners to remove vegetation due to disease or other danger.

Sponsors:  Senators Deccio, Bauer, Benton, Winsley and McCaslin.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Natural Resources & Parks:  1/30/97.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES & PARKS

Staff:  Vic Moon (786-7469)

Background:  Some local governments charge fees to persons removing trees from their property.

Summary of Bill:  Any property owner cutting down, falling, trimming or otherwise removing a tree or plant on property because of disease or endangerment to persons or property is not required by any governmental agency to obtain permission for the action.  Any costs charged by a forester, arborist or expert to determine the value of trees or plants for any statute, ordinance or rule must be paid exclusively by the governmental entity requiring the value determination.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.