Trees

Trees on Private Property

There are two different bylaws relating to trees on private property; one is for trees that are considered Protected Trees, and the second bylaw is for trees located in the designated Erosion District.

Trees that are considered protected are:

  • dogwood;
  • arbutus;
  • Garry oak;
  • pacific yew;
  • shore pine;
  • trembling aspen;
  • any tree that is larger than 0.6m (2’) in diameter at breast height;
  • nesting trees; and,
  • replacement or retained trees that were identified during a municipal permit process or protected by registered covenant.  

If you are wanting to prune or remove trees that are considered “protected”, you would need to submit a protected tree application. As part of your submission, you need to include a site plan identifying all tree types and sizes, along with all existing and proposed buildings and structures. Depending on the reason for pruning or removal, you may require an arborist report as well.

If you would like to remove trees in the erosion district (map), you would require a tree removal permit, which is processed by the Engineering Department. As part of your application, you would require the completed application form, a site plan locating all buildings, structures and trees as well as a geotechnical engineer’s report. The engineer’s report is to certify that the proposed tree removal will not create any detrimental effect to the land or a water course.

Trees on Public Property

Boulevard Trees

Trees on the municipal right of way will only be trimmed if:

  • the tree is an obstruction to vehicle or pedestrian traffic
  • the tree is a danger to property such as houses and vehicles
  • the tree is in need of maintenance to ensure continued health of tree

Trees on the municipal right of way will only be removed if:

  • the tree affects traffic safety
  • the tree affects underground services
  • the tree is diseased or damaged and is a public hazard
  • the tree obstructs ditches or drains and is less than 20 centimetres in diameter

Larger diameter trees or heritage/protected trees require an evaluation by a certified arborist and approval by Council before any action can be taken. If you have a question or concern about a tree on a boulevard, contact Central Saanich Municipal Yard at 250-544-4224.

Park Trees

The Parks department of Public Works is responsible for the maintenance of the many different species of trees in the various parks, pathways and trail linkages in the district. If you have a question or concern about a tree in one of these areas, contact 250-544-4224.