Local tree-rule guide
Kelowna tree rules
Tree permits apply in protected riparian, steep-slope and covenant contexts rather than to every ordinary private-yard tree.
The local rule
Kelowna's tree-cutting permit requirement is tied mainly to protected environmental areas rather than every private-yard tree.
The City says a permit is generally required for specified trees in riparian management areas or on steep slopes, while ordinary private trees outside the Natural Environment Development Permit Area are typically treated differently.
Kelowna generally requires a tree-cutting permit for protected trees over 100 mm diameter in riparian management areas or on hillsides with slopes of 30% or greater.
The City says a permit is typically not required for ordinary private-property trees outside the Natural Environment Development Permit Area.
A tree assessment and replacement plan prepared by an ISA Certified Arborist is required with tree-cutting permit applications.
Trees removed under the bylaw must be replaced within one growing season and/or secured through a performance security.
Application details
Kelowna’s private-tree permit is tied to sensitive-site conditions
- Kelowna does not impose one blanket private-yard tree-removal permit across the whole city.
- The current tree-cutting permit page focuses on trees in Natural Environment Development Permit Areas, especially riparian corridors and steep hillsides.
Kelowna says a permit is generally required for trees over 100 mm diameter when they are within a riparian management area—typically 5 to 30 m from a creek, pond, lake or wetland—or on a hillside with a slope of 30% or greater.
The City says a tree permit is typically not required for private-property trees outside the Natural Environment Development Permit Area. Normal pruning or removal of dead, diseased or damaged branches under 30% of the canopy is also listed as a typical no-permit situation.
Every permit application requires a tree assessment and replacement plan prepared by an ISA Certified Arborist.
Kelowna’s current scale rises with DBH: two replacements for a tree up to 151 mm, three for 152–304 mm, four for 305–456 mm, six for 457–609 mm, and eight replacements for a tree 610 mm or larger.
If a tree poses an imminent danger, Kelowna allows emergency removal before approval, but the permit application must be submitted as soon as possible afterward and Planning staff should be notified.
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 reviewed October 1, 2026. Rules can change; confirm with the local authority before work. How we research