A bevel etching method includes forming a target layer over a semiconductor substrate, and forming an energy-sensitive layer over the target layer. The method also includes performing an energy treating process to form a treated portion in the energy-sensitive layer. The treated portion is in a peripheral region. The method further includes removing the treated portion such that a remaining portion of the energy-sensitive layer is in a central region surrounded by the peripheral region, and transferring a pattern of the remaining portion of the energy-sensitive layer to the target layer.