Why protect Wrenford's trees?
Trees make our city healthier, cooler and greener. They filter the air, absorb rainwater and provide homes for birds and wildlife. Protecting them during construction and everyday life helps keep Wrenford green for the future.
What the Tree Protection By-law covers
The Tree Protection By-law 2018-045 applies to all trees in Wrenford. It has different rules for trees on public land (like streets, parks and ravines) and trees on private property. The goal is to keep as many established trees as possible while allowing safe development.
Rules for public trees
Public trees are cared for by the City. You must not:
- Cut, remove, move or prune a public tree without a permit.
- Damage the bark or attach signs, wires, ropes or any objects to a tree.
- Plant new trees or shrubs on City land without approval.
- Drive or park heavy vehicles in the root zone of a tree.
- Spray chemicals or fertilizers on a tree unless you are an authorized contractor.
Violations can result in fines ranging from $200 for minor infractions like attaching a sign, up to $10,000 for serious damage or ignoring an enforcement order. Under the Provincial Offences Act, higher penalties may apply to corporations or repeat offenders.
Permits for private trees
Property owners are responsible for the trees on their land. You need a permit to remove any private tree with a diameter of 15 centimetres or more, measured 1.4 metres above the ground. You do not need a permit for smaller trees, unless they were previously designated as a replacement tree or are part of a new landscape plan.
We only approve tree removal when one of these conditions is met:
- The tree is inside the planned building footprint.
- A certified arborist confirms the tree is dead, dying, or a safety hazard.
- An arborist confirms the tree is blocking utility lines and cannot be pruned safely.
- An accredited plumber confirms the roots are blocking a sewer or drainage line.
If you are approved to remove a tree, you must plant a replacement tree of a similar species and size within one growing season. The application fee is $150.00 for the first tree and $45.00 for each additional tree removed in the same year. Visit Apply for a tree removal permit to start your application.
Construction and tree protection
If you are building or renovating, you must protect nearby trees. Any construction activity within five metres of a tree trunk requires a Tree Protection Plan. This plan shows where you will place protective fencing around the root zone to prevent soil compaction and root damage.
For larger development projects, you must submit an arborist's report with your development application. The City requires that all healthy trees on your property be retained unless a removal permit is granted. If you need help finding a qualified professional, look for an ISA Certified Arborist through the Building Permits portal.
Reporting damage or violations
If you see a tree being damaged, illegally pruned or threatened by construction, please report it right away. Anonymous reports are not accepted, as an officer may need to follow up with you.
When reporting, have the following ready:
- Your name and contact information.
- The exact address and location of the tree.
- A description of the damage or violation.
- Photos, if available.
You can report issues by calling 311 (inside city limits) or 519-555-0100. You can also submit a report online through the Report a park maintenance issue form. For questions about the by-law itself, email [email protected].
Need a contractor?
For work on public trees, the City hires approved contractors. If you are hiring a contractor for private tree work, ensure they carry at least $2,000,000 in liability insurance and hold an ISA certification. The City does not endorse specific companies and is not responsible for disputes between property owners and contractors.