Tree Protection Bylaw
Tree Bylaw
The purpose of the Tree Protection Bylaw is to protect Richmond’s urban forest by restricting tree removal from private lands and ensuring replacement trees are provided when trees are required to be removed.
The basic strategy involves preserving healthy trees where possible (based on their long-term viability), permitting the removal of those trees that are either in poor condition or in conflict with new development and requiring the replanting of new trees.
Trees within any urban forest are a dynamic resource - they grow, they mature, they decline and eventually die. Seeking retention where it is feasible, while at the same time ensuring there are adequate replacements, promotes the creation of a sustainable urban forest as a continued benefit to our community.
When to Apply for a Tree Removal Permit
The City’s Tree Protection Bylaw No. 8057 generally prohibits the cutting or removal of any tree larger than 20 cm (7-7/8 inches) in diameter at breast height (dbh - measured at 1.4m or 4'7" above the ground) without a permit.
Key elements of the Bylaw are summarized in the following Bulletins:
Bulletin - Tree-01: Tree Protection Bylaw 8057
Bulletin - Tree-08: Tree Protection Bylaw 8057 Application Process
Updates to the Tree Bylaw as of October 10, 2007 can be viewed in:
Bulletin - Tree-05: Tree Protection Bylaw Changes - Municipal Ticketing Bylaw Changes
The Arborist Report is now available to view/download/print:
Bulletin - Tree-04: Arborist Report
Additional information on required tree fencing can be retrieved from:
Bulletin Tree-03: Protection of Existing Trees During Demolition and Construction
Tree Survey Guidelines
Downloadable Tree Protection Sign
For full text of the Bylaw, please refer to our Bylaws Chapter List, where it can be viewed, printed, or downloaded.
Tree cutting permits may be applied for in person at City Hall during regular work hours (Monday to Friday from 8:15 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) by the property owner or authorized agent of the owner.
A Tree Cutting Application Form must be filled out and submitted to City Hall. Bring the completed form and fees in person to City Hall where staff will assist you in completing all the necessary steps for submitting your application. We regret that we are unable to accept faxed, mailed or electronically submitted applications at this time.
The form and related materials are available below for download in PDF format.
Tree Removal Permit Application (Non-Development) (PL-20)
Tree Removal Permit Application (Demolition / New Construction - T2)
Tree Removal Permit Application (Rezoning in Process - T3) (PL-48)
Bulletin Tree-11: Tree Permit Appeal Process
Request to City Council to Appeal Refusal of Tree Permit
Bulletin Tree-06: Tree Removal on Sites Involved in the Rezoning Process
Bulletin Tree-07: Landscape Cross-Section Drawings at Building Permit Submission
Bulletin Tree-10: Replacement Tree Guideline
Letter of Authorization
Letter of Authorization for Strata Properties (PL-54)
New Survey Requirements
Suitable Trees for Replanting (PL-17)
Tree Care Professionals (PL-27)
Contact Us
If you require further assistance, or would like to report a possible illegal tree cutting, please contact the City 604-247-4684 during regular work hours (Monday to Friday from 8:15 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.).
Alternatively, we may be reached by email at: TreeProtection@richmond.ca
To report a possible illegal tree cutting outside of regular work hours, please call the 24 Hour City Emergency Line at 604-270-8721.
