If you are considering removing a tree in Calgary on your property, you may or may not need a permit. Here are the facts and regulations surrounding tree removal, whether you’re a homeowner looking to remove a broken, dying tree that is a safety hazard or if you’re looking to cut down a tree for any other reason.
Public Or Private Tree: This Determines Whether You Need A Permit
First and foremost, there is a lot of misinformation online about whether you require a permit to remove or prune a tree. In Calgary, it ultimately comes down to whether the tree is public or private.
A public tree requires a permit to cut down, remove, or alter. These trees are located on city-owned property, such as a public space, park, or boulevard.
A private tree, however, has no current regulations in the City preventing its owner from removing it.
How To Know For Sure If A Tree Is Public Or Private
To check if the tree you want to remove is a private tree that does not require a permit, visit the Calgary Urban Forestry Map and enter your address. Look for a highlighted dot on your property.
If there’s a dot, it’s a public tree. To remove a public tree, you must submit an application for tree removal through Calgary.ca.
If there is no dot, the tree is classified as private and you can remove it without city approval.
Why Does Cutting Down A Tree In Calgary Matter?
Trees are an important part of the landscaping of any Canadian city but for Calgary, they’re even more important as our tree density is below average. In fact, we have about three times less tree density compared to other major cities across the country.
Calgary tree density: 8%
Montreal tree density: 20%
Vancouver tree density: 23%
Toronto tree density: 28%
Even if removing a private tree is currently unrestricted, it’s important to carefully weigh the decision.
Calgary benefits immensely from having trees in its landscape and they offer immeasurable benefits to our community.
Trees help to stabilize land and offer erosion control. They support birds, squirrels, and local wildlife. They help to filter pollutants and produce fresh oxygen for our community. Trees also help to provide community members with mental health benefits, reducing stress and enhancing the quality of life in parks and across tree-lined streets.
How Tree Regulations In Calgary Might Change
In early 2024, City council discussed implementing new regulations to preserve private trees. An update is expected later this year.
Trees are an asset that we believe should be protected. Evergreen Ltd. believes we and the citizens of Calgary need to be the voice that pushes our local government councilors to commit to tree preservation and ensure the following:
All new urban development, including in-fills, row housing, and commercial developments, have a mandatory tree allotment prior to construction.
For all tree allotment and tree preservation planning to be overseen by an ISA or municipal arborist independent from the developer.
Levy stiff fines or potential legal ramifications against developers or individuals who are not in compliance.
There is no dispute that the City of Calgary has inadequate tree density. We believe we can do better.
How You Can Help Calgary Trees And Urban Forestry In Alberta
Sign The Petition
Evergreen Ltd. launched a petition on Change.org to encourage the City of Calgary to adopt stronger tree preservation policies. Please add your name, sign the petition, and help us encourage responsible tree density in Calgary for future generations to enjoy.
Consult A Certified Arborist
Before you cut down a tree or hire tree removal services, ensure you consult a certified arborist to assess the tree’s health and how to do it.
Educate
Evergreen Ltd. is committed to educating young students at elementary schools across the city and citizens in the Calgary region about sustainable tree density practices. If you would like us to present as a guest speaker at your school, please contact us and provide us with your details.
Concerned About The Health Of A Tree? Contact An Arborist
A tree that you want to cut down and remove should be referred to a certified arborist in Calgary. When you talk with an arborist, ensure they are certified and knowledgeable. You can type in the name of any arborist on treesaregood.org to verify their credentials.
Some arborists advertise themselves as ISA-certified but they are not. We are at Evergreen Ltd.
When you need to cut down a tree, our tree removal services will ensure that it’s done right and responsibly. It is our pledge to make our future more sustainable for the generations to come and positively contribute to what we hope will become a growing tree count for our city.
Let’s work together towards a greener, healthier Calgary in the years to come. Contact Evergreen Ltd. today for more information on how you can help.
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