Local tree-rule guide
Maple Ridge tree rules
Current 2026 Tree Protection and Management Bylaw regulates protected private trees, replacement and development protection.
The local rule
Maple Ridge's updated 2026 Tree Protection and Management Bylaw protects specified trees, including a common 20 cm diameter-at-breast-height category.
A permit can be required not only for removal but also for work that injures a protected tree, including excessive live-crown pruning under the bylaw.
Application details
Maple Ridge’s 2026 tree bylaw now gives a much clearer homeowner path
- Maple Ridge adopted Tree Protection and Management Bylaw 8045-2026 in May 2026.
- The current City material now clearly defines protected trees, separates residential and development permit streams, and publishes current fees and replacement charges.
The City defines a protected tree to include any tree 20 cm DBH or greater, a Significant Tree at 60 cm DBH or greater, required replacement/development trees, City trees, covenanted trees and trees of any size in riparian or conservation areas.
A permit is required not only to cut or remove a protected tree but also to prune more than 25% of a tree’s live crown or carry out work that would damage a protected tree contrary to the bylaw.
The residential stream charges $70 for the first tree applied for removal from a lot in a calendar year and $100 for each additional tree.
The development stream charges a $300 base fee plus $100 per tree. The current fees page lists a $640 replacement-tree security and $800 cash-in-lieu amount per replacement tree, plus a $150 reinspection fee and $100 permit-change fee.
Applications are submitted with the required plans and owner/shared-tree consents. The current City guidance says issued tree permits are valid for six months and that applicants should not begin work until approval is issued.
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