A permit is required to cut protected trees:

• trees of any species 75 cm in diameter or larger
• Arbutus, Garry oak, Pacific yew, Pacific dogwood, Yellow cedar, and Shore pine 20 cm in diameter or larger.
• trees greater than 10 cm diameter or larger within 15 metres of the top of a watercourse bank, through an Environmental Development Permit
• heritage trees (as part of the Community Heritage Register)

Note: the diameter is measured 1.4 metres from the ground.

How to apply

1.    Obtain an arborist report outlining the proposed work and rationale based on the Tree Bylaw.

2.    Complete the application form:

Private Property Tree Cutting Permit Application Form

3.    Send in the completed application form and arborist report together in one package by one of the following methods:

• Mail: Planning & Development Department
  750 17th Street, West Vancouver BC  V7S 3E7
• Email

4.    Once your application has been received and processed, an application fee slip will be emailed to you. This typically takes up to 5 days depending on volume of permits received.

Fee: $300

Application fees are non-refundable.

Note: replanting and a security deposit may be required.

Pay your invoice online

5.    The review of a completed application usually takes two to three weeks.

6.    If your application is approved, the permit will be sent to you by email.

7.    The tree permit must be posted on site, in a visible location from the street, during the work.