West Linn Heritage Tree Program

Honoring Our Living History

Since 1993, the City of West Linn has celebrated the community’s deep connection to nature through the Heritage Tree Program. These special designations recognize individual trees that embody the city’s history, character, and sense of place. Each Heritage Tree tells a story — of time, growth, and the people who have cared for it.

To date, ten trees across West Linn have been designated as Heritage Trees, representing important moments and landmarks in our community’s history. A full list of designated trees can be found on the West Linn Parks & Recreation Heritage Trees webpage.

What Is a Heritage Tree?

Under West Linn Municipal Code (WLMC) 8.510, a Heritage Tree is one that the City Council designates as having significant historic, cultural, or community value.  Criteria for designation — outlined in WLMC 8.710 — include a tree’s size, location, condition, and historical significance. 8.710 Heritage Trees

Nominate a Heritage Tree

You’re invited to help preserve West Linn’s natural heritage by nominating a tree for designation as a City of West Linn Heritage Tree.

• Who can nominate: Anyone may submit a nomination, as long as the property owner approves the nomination.
• When to apply: Nominations are accepted year-round. Final decisions are made by the City Council, and new designations are celebrated each April during a Heritage Tree Ceremony.

How Nominations Are Reviewed

1. City Arborist Review – Nominations are evaluated and scored based on the official Heritage Tree criteria.
2. PRAB Evaluation – Qualifying nominations are presented to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board (PRAB) for review and recommendation.
3. City Council Designation – The City Council makes final decisions on a rolling basis.
4. Recognition Ceremony – Newly designated Heritage Trees are honored during a public ceremony at the tree’s location in April.
5. Application found below

Preservation and Maintenance

Once a tree is designated, a Heritage Tree Designation and Preservation Agreement is recorded with the county recorder’s office and added to the property deed to ensure its long-term protection. Property owners remain responsible for the care and maintenance of Heritage Trees located on private property. The City coordinates the recording process for all approved designations.

Explore Our Heritage Trees

Oregon White Oak          2591 Dillow Drive                        June 23rd, 1993
Big Leaf Maple                 1775 19th Street                         April 11th, 1994
Tri-Color Beech                5530 River Street                        April 11th, 1994
Oregon White Oak           2053 Walden Street                   April 10th, 1995
California Bay Laurel       1831 5th Avenue                        April 10th, 1995
Cedar of Lebanon            5464 West A Street                    April 8th, 1996
Black Walnut                     PGE Volpp Street ROW             April 14th, 1997
London Plane Tree           1819 6th Avenue                      April 14th, 1997
Weeping Willow                1420 Dollar Street                    April 14th, 1997
Oregon White Oak            Mary S Young Park