Protecting our trees
Trees are integral to our environment, add character to our community, and are valued by our residents. They improve our urban landscape and provide many other benefits, including:
- a healthy environment, by filtering air pollutants and stabilizing soil on slopes
- improved neighbourhoods, with more privacy and shelter from wind and rain
- economic savings, by helping reduce energy costs
Trees that we protect
We protect any tree that is:
- on land owned by or in the possession of the District
- within a streamside protection area
- on sloping terrain
- a replacement tree
- a heritage tree
- a wildlife tree
- located on waterfront
- one of these species: Arbutus, Garry Oak, Oregon Ash, Pacific Yew, Western White Pine, Yellow-cedar
Ways that we protect our trees
We have a number of regulations and policies in place that allow us to preserve and enhance our community's forested character and ecological systems, while minimizing risk to the public and to personal property.
Tree protection bylaw
Under the tree protection bylaw (7671), all trees on District property are protected. Trees are maintained and cared for by the District parks arborists, along with several pre-approved independent contractors, in accordance with the policy.
Tree removal permits
You need a permit if you want to remove or prune any protected tree (such as a large diamter tree, wildlife tree, heritage tree, tree on waterfront or wetland, or a tree on District property), in accordance with our tree protection bylaw,
Tree protection policy
The corporate policy addresses both hazardous and non-hazardous trees on District property. It clearly outlines the procedures to evaluate hazardous and non-hazardous trees, the permit process, and the tree rating procedure we use to evaluate trees.
Development Permit Areas (DPA)
Development Permit Areas (DPAs) are areas where special requirements and guidelines for any development or alteration of the land are in effect. Trees are protected under the requirements for slope hazard, streamside, and natural environment areas.
