Urban trees are nature’s air filter, crime fighter, and parking spot stealer. If only they handed out property appreciation medals! But as Cody Zahradnik, arborist with Para Space Landscaping, reveals, things become far more complicated when municipalities and strata councils enter the mix. Metro Vancouver has complex tree bylaws that shape our urban canopy, sometimes leaving us scratching our heads, pruning saws in hand, wondering: “Can I touch that tree?”
Cody shares his insights into untangling the roots of local tree regulations, explaining the tree permit process in Metro Vancouver, and offering practical tips for communities that want to do the right thing.
Why tree bylaws exist (and why they matter)
The need to protect the urban canopy is real — not just for environmental benefits, but also for noise reduction, improved air quality, reduced urban heat islands, and even lower crime rates.
As Cody puts it, “Contractors and homeowners were just cutting down trees all willy-nilly without reason.” Municipalities responded by adopting unique bylaws. While sometimes confusing, these tree protection rules ensure that future generations can still enjoy, and benefit from, the habitat trees provide.
Common threads (and differences) among municipal bylaws
With 20 municipalities in the Lower Mainland, there’s a baffling variety of tree bylaws, each more confusing than the last. Cody warns that while some cities are stricter, others are surprisingly laid-back.
However, a few elements are consistent across the board. Protected trees almost always require a permit for removal, typically triggered by the tree’s diameter at breast height (DBH), measured with a specialized tape. Significant trees and those covered under development permits (including all stratas) are especially protected.
Permits are also triggered when trees are dead, diseased, or storm-damaged, or if building repairs demand removal. But forget about cutting down a tree because it blocks the sun or ruins your view. The answer from City Hall will be a polite but firm no.
For strata corporations, the hurdles are higher. Strata councils need to secure approval from owners, prepare landscape plans, and submit detailed arborist reports before even applying for removal.
Different municipalities impose different fees and requirements. For example, in Coquitlam, arborist reports are only needed when removing two or more trees, while Port Moody is well-known for replacement securities and a permit fee that can exceed $700.
The permit process: patience is a virtue
Cody outlines the normal steps in the tree permit process. Because so many parties are involved (owners, strata councils, arborists, and the municipality) the process is rarely quick. Here’s how it typical lying works:
A certified arborist must prepare a comprehensive report, essentially a tree’s medical file, before the city will even consider an application. In strata communities, councils (and sometimes owners or neighbours) must formally approve the work before it moves forward. Other considerations such as the time of year and local wildlife activity, nesting bird surveys or risk assessments may also be required.
Municipalities frequently ask for a landscape replacement plan, outlining what will be replanted, where, and how the new trees will contribute to the site’s ecology. Approval can take several months, and in complex cases, even up to a year.
Patience, Cody stresses, is as much a requirement as the paperwork.
Replacement options: choosing trees like a pro
Selecting replacement trees can be just as challenging as removing them. It’s important to choose species that will thrive long-term while adding beauty and value to the property. Each option has its benefits and challenges, and making the right choice can save homeowners and strata councils both money and maintenance headaches.
- The Pacific Dogwood (Cornus nuttallii), British Columbia’s provincial tree, is loved for its striking white blossoms and clusters of red berries. It adapts well to both sun and partial shade. However, berry and leaf drop can be messy around walkways and patios.
- For elegance and seasonal colour, the Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum) is a classic choice. Its graceful branches, brilliant fall foliage, and sculptural winter look make it a year-round standout. Its only drawback is the significant leaf drop each fall.
- The Katsura tree (Cercidiphyllum japonicum) is famous for its golden autumn leaves and caramel-like fragrance, marking seasonal change in the most charming way. But it isn’t drought-tolerant and can be fussy in Metro Vancouver’s hotter summers.
- If you want year-round vibrancy, the Blue Spruce (Picea pungens) delivers with its silvery-blue needles. It makes an impressive centrepiece but needs lots of sun and plenty of space. Planting it in a small or shaded yard is a recipe for disappointment.
- For something unique, the Weeping Nootka Cypress (Chamaecyparis nootkatensis) adds whimsical character with its drooping branches and fast growth. Still, it requires ample room and sunlight, and can outgrow compact gardens quickly.
- Finally, the iconic Cherry Blossom (Prunus) remains a Vancouver favourite, offering a dazzling spring show. But its aggressive roots and vulnerability to pests mean it needs extra attention and strategic planting.
Common questions
With complicated rules, it’s no surprise that homeowners and strata councils often have questions about tree bylaws in Metro Vancouver.
One of the most common is about boulevard trees. These belong to the city—not the homeowner. You can water them if you’d like to be a good neighbour, but pruning or removing them without approval is illegal.
Another frequent concern is what happens if a tree “falls on its own.” The reality? Trees rarely topple without cause, and if a removal occurs without a permit, municipalities can impose fines of up to $15,000. Inspectors are quick to investigate suspicious activity, so it’s best to stay within the law.
Homeowners also ask whether the city will approve tree removal for convenience — things like blocked views, too much shade, or falling leaves. Unfortunately, those aren’t valid reasons. Unless a tree is diseased, dead, or poses a safety hazard, approval is unlikely.
Spacing is another issue. Many wonder how close is too close to plant near buildings. While rules vary, most municipalities set the minimum distance at three to six feet from structures, particularly for fire safety.
Finally, there’s cost. Tree removal isn’t cheap. A simple removal may cost $1,500, but complex or large-scale removals can run $8,000 or more. For strata corporations, those costs multiply when multiple trees and professional arborist reports are involved.
Final thoughts: urban canopy wisdom
Urban trees are more than just background greenery. They’re vital to the community by providing shade and oxygen. Cody’s advice is simple: treat them with respect, partner with professionals, and plan carefully. Proper pruning, thoughtful placement, and a proactive approach can prevent most tree-related headaches.
Handled wisely, trees can increase property values, create calmer neighborhoods, and ensure future generations enjoy a greener Metro Vancouver.
For more tips, landscaping advice, or to share your own tree stories, connect with the Para Space team and keep growing boldly — just don’t let the cherry tree take over your driveway.