North Saanich’s tree canopy is vital for the health of the community and natural environment. The District’s new Tree Protection Bylaw, effective since October 3, 2022, balances protecting the tree canopy and offering flexibility to manage trees on private property.
Protected Trees
What is considered a regulated tree?
(1) ANY tree over 20cm DBH
What is considered a protected tree?
(1) ANY tree over 60cm DBH
(2) Some native tree species are protected earlier in life, see these trees below:
(a) Tree with a DBH of ≥10cm
(i) Garry Oak
(ii) Arbutus
(iii) Pacific Yew
(iv) Pacific Dogwood
(v) Shore/Lodgepole Pine
(3) ANY tree located on municipal property
(4) Wildlife tree (must have visible nest of raptor, osprey, or heron)
Please note: Cottonwood, Alder, and Pacific Willow are exempt.
Understanding what trees are protected in Victoria for property developers can also provide insight into North Saanich’s regulations and how they might impact your project.
How do I measure the DBH of my tree?
Measure the diameter of the tree at 1.4m (4ft, 7-inches) off the ground. If the tree is on a slope, measure from the highest point of natural grade around the tree.
Diameter can be found by measuring the circumference at this point and dividing by pi (3.14)
How do I calculate the DBH of my tree if it is multi-stem?
Measure the DBH of the three largest stems and add them together. The total of the three is the DBH.
Permits
Do I need a permit?
A permit is required when you wish to:
(1) Remove a regulated tree OR a protected tree
(2) Conduct significant pruning on a protected tree that would be considered “altering”:
(a) Altering means making cuts larger than 10cm (4-inch) in diameter and/or removing more than 25% of the total canopy volume in one year. *Please note, topping or removing the live crown of the tree is not allowed
If you’re unsure whether it’s time to remove a tree, understanding the signs that it might be time to remove your tree can help you make an informed decision.
How much does a permit cost?
Tree Pruning
There is no fee for a pruning permit.
Tree Removal
If the tree removal is not related to a development:
- $150 for the first tree, $25 per additional tree, and a $250 per tree replacement tree security deposit (the security deposit is refunded one year after replacement trees are planted). Knowing how to tell if a tree needs to be cut down is crucial, especially when determining whether you need a removal permit under the North Saanich tree bylaws.
If the tree removal is related to a development:
- $250 for the first tree, $25 per additional tree, and a $700 per tree replacement tree security deposit (only the security deposit is refunded one year after replacement trees are planted).
What can you prune without a permit?
(1) Branches up to 4-inch (10cm) in diameter
(2) Remove up to 25% of the total canopy of the tree per year
Replacement Trees
What are the replacement tree requirements?
(1) 2:1 Replacement ratio for regulated trees. That means one (2) trees are to be planted for every one (1) regulated tree removed.
(2) 3:1 Replacement ratio for protected trees. That means one (3) trees are to be planted for every one (1) protected tree removed.
What counts as a replacement tree?
Replacement trees can be any variety provided they meet these requirements:
(1) Size requirement at time of planting:
(a) Deciduous: Not less than 4cm in diameter, or a 10 gallon pot size
(b) Coniferous: Not less than 1.5m in height
(2) Replacement trees can be planted anywhere on the property as long as there is sufficient soil volume and space for the tree to thrive. It cannot be planted within three (3) metres of a building, or one (1) metre of a property line. It does not have to be planted or inspected by an Arborist, feel free to plant it on your own. Proof of planting must be provided to have your deposit refunded.
Understanding the importance of soil health is essential when planting replacement trees to ensure their long-term growth and vitality.
Do I have to plant a replacement tree?
Yes, if you conducted a permitted removal of a protected tree, you are required to plant replacement trees at a 2:1 ratio for every regulated tree removed and 3:1 for every protected tree removed
In rare circumstances when the Director of North Saanich Parks determines that the lot cannot accommodate the required number of replacement trees, the security deposit may be kept as cash-in-lieu of planting but must receive approval.
Refer to the bylaw for more information on how it applies to you. For more information, visit the District of North Saanich’s website.
Navigating the complexities of North Saanich’s tree bylaws can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Anchor Tree Service, we offer expert tree services throughout Victoria, BC, including tree pruning, removal, and planting. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the permitting process, ensuring compliance with local regulations while maintaining the health and beauty of your property. Contact us today for a consultation and let us help you manage your trees with care and professionalism.