A July 2026 ruling separated the neighbors’ civil claims from Seattle’s tree-protection enforcement.
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On July 27, 2026, Washington’s appeals court rejected Seattle owners George Edwards III and Judi Ervin’s tree-root lawsuit against a developer, despite a city violation notice in the record. The unpublished opinion separates private claims from municipal enforcement.
The roots crossed the fence line
Bendare Dundat Inc.’s workers cut roots while trenching on its lot in 2024. The trees stood next door. The owners’ arborist recommended removal; the developer’s recommended care and reassessment…