Local tree-rule guide
Coquitlam tree rules
Private trees 20 cm+ with a limited two-tree annual exemption in ordinary cases; special areas stricter.
The local rule
Coquitlam defines a protected tree using a 20 cm diameter threshold measured 1.4 m above the ground, along with other protected-tree categories.
For many ordinary properties the bylaw allows limited annual removal without a permit, while removing more trees or working in sensitive/specialized areas can require a tree-cutting permit.
Coquitlam’s Tree Management Bylaw applies to private property. A protected tree is generally a living woody plant 20 cm or more in diameter measured 1.4 m above ground, or a required replacement/development tree.
In most ordinary situations, a private owner may remove up to two protected-size trees per year without a tree-cutting permit.
A permit is required to remove more than two protected trees in a year, and all removals require a permit on properties affected by specified riparian, steep-slope, covenant or named-area conditions.
Permit applications can require owner authorization, neighbour consent for shared trees, an arborist report in some cases and replacement-tree security when replacement is required.
Application details
When Coquitlam's two-tree exemption stops applying
- Coquitlam's two-tree annual allowance is useful, but it is not a blanket exemption.
- The City's current permit page identifies special properties where every removal needs a permit and publishes the documents, fee tiers and replacement bond that can follow.
In most cases an owner may remove up to two protected-size trees per year without a Tree Cutting Permit. A protected tree is generally 20 cm or more in diameter measured 1.4 m above ground, or a replacement/development-required tree.
The exemption does not apply on properties with a riparian area/SPEA, a steep-slope area, a protective covenant, or a property on Burian Drive or Latimer Avenue.
Owner authorization is required. A boundary tree needs written consent from both owners; a strata applicant needs confirmation of authority from the strata management company. Special-site applications listed by the City require an ISA Certified Arborist tree-risk assessment.
A basic Tree Cutting Permit application is $71.50. Applications requiring additional documentation such as an arborist report or a City technician site visit are subject to a $358 application fee.
Required replacement trees are bonded at $300 per tree. The current page says 90% of the security is returned once the trees are planted and pass inspection; replacement need is based mainly on lot size and the number of protected trees remaining.
The valid permit must be on site during removal, and the contractor must hold a valid business licence to operate in Coquitlam or another Tri-Cities municipality. The City's current page does not publish one universal permit-expiry period, so use the date and conditions on the issued permit.
Before work starts
- Ownership: check the property line. Public and boundary trees may follow a different process.
- Site context: review any development approval, covenant or protected-area conditions.
- Work requirements: confirm any permit, exemption or protection requirements that apply to the planned work.
Official sources
Primary municipal source rechecked October 1, 2026. Rules can change; confirm with the local authority before work. How we research