Designated Forest Land

Program Benefit



Washington State encourages sound forestry practices so that present and future generations can enjoy the many benefits that healthy forests provide. As a way to encourage responsible, commercial forestry in Washington State, landowners may choose to have their land designated as forest land. This designation often results in a lower assessed value and lower taxes.

Qualifying Definition



Designating Forest Land is defined in RCW 84.33 and valued in WAC Chapter 458-40.

All of the requirements must be met:

  • The land must be used primarily for growing and harvesting timber for commercial purposes.
  • The land must consist of a single parcel of 5 or more acres; or multiple, contiguous parcels totaling 5 or more acres. Residential home sites are not included in the 5 acre minimum. 
  • Designated forest land may include land used for incidental uses that are compatible with growing and harvesting timber, but no more than ten percent of the land may be used for such incidental uses.
  • If the land has appurtenances necessary for the production, preparation, or sale of the timber products, that land may also be included.
  • You must comply with forest practice laws and regulations. 
  • Application and Forest Management Plan must be submitted to the Assessor.
  • The application fee is $350 and is non-refundable. Please include the fee with your application and make the check payable to "San Juan County Treasurer".