Tips and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Tree By-Law
We recommend you visit the following sites to learn more about trees
and landscaping.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Why do I need a permit to remove a tree on my own property or to remove a tree that I planted?
The Protection of Trees By-law requires that a permit be obtained for the removal of all trees on private property, except those less than 20 cm (8 inches) in diameter measured at 1.4 metres (4.5 feet) from the ground.
I live in a strata, how do I obtain a tree permit?
You will need to get written confirmation from your strata council that you have permission to apply for a permit to remove the tree and include the letter with your application. For larger developments with an approved landscape plan, there is also a process to review and renew the landscape plan, in accordance with provisions from both the Protection of Trees By-law and the Zoning and Development By-law.
How long is a permit to remove a tree valid for?
A tree permit is valid for 6 months from the date of issue.
Why do I need a permit to remove a tree if the tree is already
dead or dying?
The City of Vancouver normally requires a one to one replacement
of removed trees. Even though the tree is dead, there is (or was)
a tree on the site that requires replacing.
The boulevard trees need pruning -- Who do I call?
All questions regarding street trees can be referred to Street
Trees at 604-257-8600. For back lane trees,
you can call Engineering at 604-871-6200.
How do I know if my tree is a hazard or if it is safe?
Call a Certified Arborist to come and assess your tree. They may
recommend that the tree be immediately removed or that you have a 6, 12,
18 or 24-month progress report done. They may also assure you that
the tree is healthy and safe.
Who is an I.S.A. Certified Arborist?
These tree specialist have passed an exam administered by the International Society of Arborists.
They are the only people that the City of Vancouver will recognize as
qualified to submit a report on tree health and safety.
What can I do if my neighbour’s tree is overhanging my roof,
sundeck, etc.?
The best way to resolve a dispute with your neighbour bout overhanging
tree branches or invasive roots is to discuss the situation with them
and agree to a solution that serves both parties. Most disputes
between neighbours can be resolved easily if both neighbours use common
sense and are willing to compromise. There are no by-laws which regulate
disputes about trees which are overgrowing a property line and therefore
the City of Vancouver cannot intervene on behalf of either neighbour.
If you feel that the dispute cannot be settled amicably you may wish to
consult a lawyer.
What does “D.B.H.” mean?
D.B.H. means diameter at breat height. It is an accurate measurement of the diameter of a tree measured at chest height, or 1.4 metres (4.5
feet) from the ground. The diameter is the width of the tree, not
the circumference around the tree.
The Protection of Trees By-law applies to all trees except those less than 20 cm (8 inches) D.B.H.. If the tree has multiple stems at chest height, measure the 3 largest branches at D.B.H. and add the 3 diameters together. If the sum is less than 20 cm, the tree is exempt from the by-law.
You can download the tree permit application
[pdf] and bring it by the office. The hours are 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday through
Friday. Closed on all statutory holidays. You will need to sketch
a site plan showing:
- all buildings, sidewalks, and road access;
- all existing trees;
- the tree to be removed; and
- where the replacement tree will be located.
There is a $62 permit fee for a single tree and $176 for each
additional tree. The process takes approximately 15 minutes.
Contacts
For more information, you can read the Protection of Trees
By-law [pdf], review the Residential Tree Removal Information
or the Construction and Development Information.
You can ask us questions by e-mailing private.property.trees@vancouver.ca
or by calling the Tree Information Hot Line at 604.871.6378.
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