Private Tree By-law

* Additional permits and regulations apply

**Permit required; fees and compensation are waived.

When you’re ready to start your project, follow these nine easy steps:

1. Complete the online application form. For faster service, remember to submit a copy of your arborist report, preservation plan and replanting plan.
2. Within five business days, a Forestry staff member will arrange an on-site visit with you or your arborist to discuss the project scope and verify that all required plans and reports have been submitted.
3. Complete plan submissions will be approved by Forestry staff. Any plan changes can be resubmitted to Forestry via email at forestrypermits@burlington.ca. 
4. Installation of tree protection measures as shown on the plan can be completed. When done, contact Forestry for a site verification, or submit photos via email, forestrypermits@burlington.ca. 
5. When hoarding is approved, Forestry will confirm the details of your permit. This document details any permit conditions, as well as permit fees, compensation for tree loss and securities if applicable.
6. You can pick up and pay for your permit at two locations:

1. With your tree permit in hand, you can now start your project. At some points throughout the project, Forestry staff will stop by to see how you’re doing and may provide recommendations to repair any damaged fencing or tree impacts. We’re here to help.
2. Once you’re finished your project, notify the Forestry section. Someone will visit your site to ensure that the permit conditions have been met, and if so, you may remove your tree protection fencing. If deficiencies are found, they will need to be fixed before you can remove your fencing.
3. With your fencing removed, your permit is now closed, and your project complete, you can enjoy your new house, pool or landscape knowing that you’ve played an important role in preservation the City’s valuable urban forest.

The bylaw requires applicants to submit an application to the Manager of Urban Forestry or their designate with the following information:

• A Tree Protection Plan and Arborist report acceptable to the Manager of Urban Forestry or designate, identifying the trees to be injured or destroyed, and including size, species, condition and location; the trees to be kept; and measures to be taken for the preservation of remaining trees on the site. Download the Tree Inventory and Compensation Form.
• A proposed tree replacement planting plan showing the size and location of all proposed trees.
• Confirmation that tree protection fencing around City trees is done in accordance with the City’s Standard Specification for Tree Protection and Preservation.
• Project scope, including but not limited to, an explanation of proposed demolition (if applicable), construction, equipment used, timing, detailed explanations of any applicable work within tree preservation zones.
• A schedule of proposed site inspections to be completed by the project arborist.
• *Boundary trees located within three metres on both sides of a mutual lot line require a letter of agreement signed by the adjacent neighbor(s); or documentation from the Project Arborist that the proposed work will not negatively impact the tree in question.
• Any additional relevant information.

Online Application

Tree Permit, Development Related Application: $680/property

Tree Permit, Non-Development Related Application: $ 390/property

Cash-in-Lieu of Replacement Compensation (Cash in Lieu): $400/tree

Private Tree Bylaw Contravention Fee: $680/tree

Trees that are injured or removed under the provisions of a tree permit will need to be replaced using the City’s method of calculation. The tree's size, measured as diameter at 1.4 m above ground, as well as the overall condition rating will impact the total number of cm required to be replaced. Generally, one replacement tree is required for every 10 cm diameter removed. 

Download the Tree Inventory and Compensation Form.

If there is no room for the replacement trees, there will be a charge of $400 per replacement tree. This money will be used toward the Private Tree Incentive Program where private homeowners will be encouraged to plant trees on their property.