Vancouver, British Columbia · homeowner guide
Vancouver: private trees 20 cm or more
The permit trigger, application checklist and replacement rules, in one place.
Measured at 1.4 m
Additional trees: $324 each
After the permit is issued
When do you need a permit?
Measure the trunk diameter 1.4 metres above the base. A permit application does not guarantee approval.
The City uses the combined diameters of the largest two or three stems at 1.4 m. A total of at least 20 cm triggers the permit requirement.
A required replacement tree or a tree tied to an approved landscape plan can still need a permit. Check hedges with the City; the bylaw’s small-tree exemption excludes hedge trees.
City trees follow a separate public-tree process. Confirm the property line before treating a boulevard tree as your own.
The reason for removal matters
Examples of grounds the City may accept include:
- Condition or damage: a professionally supported hazard, dying tree, or property damage that cannot be resolved through standard arboriculture.
- Utilities or drainage: interference supported by the required arborist or accredited-plumber evidence.
- Approved development: a qualifying building-envelope or required-construction-access conflict.
Conditions apply. See Section 4 of By-law 9958 for the full criteria ↗
What to submit
For a removal outside a development project, prepare:
- ISA-certified arborist reportDocument the tree and the reason for removal.
- Site planShow buildings, streets or lanes, retained trees, proposed removals and replacement locations.
- Owner’s authorization, if using an agentProvide the owner’s original, signed authorization letter.
- Consent for shared or strata treesA boundary tree needs the other owner’s written consent. For strata property, the City asks for the council president’s or vice-president’s consent.
Published permit fees
| Tree requested for removal | Fee |
|---|---|
| First tree in a 12-month period | $113 |
| Each additional tree in the same 12 months | $324 |
After the City approves removal
The permit becomes void if removal is not completed within six months of issue.
Post a copy where it can be seen from the street and/or lane while work is underway.
The City requires a replacement for a removed tree larger than 20 cm. Final planting requirements depend on approved removals and the trees remaining on site.
The bylaw requires a security deposit when replacement trees are required. Confirm the amount and release conditions with the City.
City landscape inspectors check that required replacement trees are planted and remain in good condition.
Special cases to check
- Construction near retained trees: protect trees on the site, neighbouring property and boulevard when the project could damage them.
- Processing time: the City’s permit page gives no fixed approval timeline. Leave time for the report and review.
- Urgent hazard: Section 9 covers natural damage creating an imminent falling hazard. Apply for the permit within 24 hours of removal, or the next business day after a weekend or holiday.
- Unapproved cutting or injury: enforcement and replacement obligations can apply. Check Section 11 before work.
Official sources
Last checked October 6, 2026. Independent information, not legal advice or a permit decision. Confirm current rules and property conditions with Vancouver before work.