Why protect trees during construction?
Your trees are a vital part of Wrenford's canopy and neighbourhood character. Ninety-nine per cent of a tree's root system sits within one metre of the soil surface. Heavy equipment, soil compaction, paving over roots, and excavation in the root zone can cause lasting damage. Injured trees often show signs of decline up to ten years after construction finishes. Protecting them early saves money and keeps our streets green.
When do you need a tree protection plan?
You must submit a tree protection plan if your development, renovation, or construction activity will take place within five metres of any tree on City land, or if adjacent trees could be affected. This applies to new builds, secondary suites, laneway homes, and major landscaping projects. If you plan to remove a tree with a diameter of 15 centimetres or more (measured at 1.4 metres above ground), you will also need a tree removal permit under the Tree protection bylaw.
What goes into a tree protection plan?
A tree protection plan outlines exactly how your project will proceed without harming protected trees. You can prepare it yourself, but most applicants hire a certified arborist or a qualified landscape professional. Your plan must include:
- An inventory of all trees and shrubs on City land within five metres of your property lines, including species, diameter at 1.4 metres, height, and canopy width.
- A designated tree protection zone (TPZ). The TPZ must extend from the trunk to the drip line of the canopy. No storage, excavation, or heavy machinery is allowed inside this zone.
- Details on staging areas, material storage, construction access roads, and utility trenching locations.
- A drawing showing where protective fencing will be installed. Fencing must be sturdy, at least 1.8 metres high, and clearly marked with "Tree Protection Zone — No Entry" signs.
- Pre- and post-construction care measures, including soil aeration and watering schedules.
- Contact information for a site supervisor responsible for enforcing the plan and ensuring all contractors follow the rules.
Arborist reports and tree removal
If your project requires removing a tree 15 centimetres or larger, you must submit a certified arborist report. Removal is only approved if the tree is dead, structurally hazardous, or directly conflicts with the building envelope. You may also apply for a variance if the tree cannot be pruned without losing its health or reasonable appearance. Replacement trees must be planted according to the City's landscaping requirements, usually at a one-for-one ratio.
Rules, by-laws, and permits
Tree protection on Wrenford is governed by the Zoning By-law 2016-040, the Site Alteration By-law 2022-071, and the Traffic and Parking By-law 2014-075. If your protective fencing or hoarding will sit on the City right-of-way or cover a parking space, you must also apply for a Street use permits. All work must comply with the Engineering Standards. Violations of tree protection rules can result in fines under the Property Standards By-law 2019-112 and enforcement action by By-law Enforcement.
Fees and inspections
A tree protection plan review fee of $125.00 applies. The City will inspect the site before, during, and after construction to ensure the protection zone remains intact. An inspection fee of $150.00 is charged per visit. If damage occurs, the property owner is responsible for the cost of remediation or replacement.
How to submit your plan
Once your plan and arborist report are ready, email them to [email protected] or deliver them to Room 202, Wrenford City Hall, 100 Mercer Street. Include the completed Tree Protection Plan Agreement form. The City aims to review complete submissions within ten business days. After approval, you may proceed with your building or Building permits.
For questions about tree protection, call 519-555-0100 or contact the planning team at Contact planning and development.