Local tree-rule guide
North Vancouver City tree rules
Zoning controls the answer: many low-density residential lots are permit-exempt, while other properties use a 20 cm protected-tree rule.
The local rule
The City of North Vancouver’s private-tree rules depend on zoning and property context rather than using one threshold for every lot.
On properties where the tree-protection rules apply, the City uses a protected-tree threshold and has a separate process for hazardous trees and removals connected to development.
Application details
City of North Vancouver has two different private-tree regimes
- The City’s current tree page makes zoning the first decision.
- Many low-density residential properties generally do not need a tree-removal permit, while multi-family, commercial, civic, industrial and mixed-employment properties can fall under a 20 cm protected-tree rule.
Properties in GO, RS-1, RS-2, RS-4B, RT-1 and RT-2 generally do not require a tree-removal permit. Streamside areas and some CD zones are exceptions, so confirm zoning before relying on that exemption.
A permit is required to remove or extensively prune a protected tree, including on multi-family, commercial, civic, industrial and mixed-employment sites. The published protected-tree threshold is 20 cm or greater in diameter measured 1.4 m above ground.
If the trunk lies partly outside your property line, written permission from the neighbouring owner is required before tree work. That includes a tree partly on City property.
Basic pruning generally does not require a permit when sound arboriculture is followed, but topping, removing more than 25% of the crown in one season, raising the crown beyond the City’s limit, and cutting structural roots in the critical root zone are prohibited.
Protected-tree applications can require an ISA arborist report, Tree Protection Plan, Tree Replacement Plan, site plan/survey, owner or shared-tree authorization and proof of the tree company’s certification/accreditation.
An imminently hazardous tree may be cut first, but the owner must submit evidence within 24 hours, leave the felled tree in place until the City confirms receipt, pay the required permit/security amounts and obtain the retroactive permit before final removal.
The City identifies approximately March 1 to August 31 as the most active nesting season and requires a Qualified Environmental Professional bird survey with a permit application when removal is planned during that period.
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