Burnaby Tree Pruning & Removal Bylaws

Parks and Public Spaces British Columbia 3 Minutes Read · published May 24, 2026 Flag of British Columbia

Burnaby, British Columbia manages street and private trees through municipal rules that balance public safety, infrastructure protection and canopy preservation. This guide explains when pruning or removal requires a permit, how to apply, inspection and enforcement pathways, and practical steps for homeowners and contractors. For official guidance on municipal tree services and policies consult the City of Burnaby urban forestry pages[1].

Overview of tree pruning and removal rules

Generally, pruning minor branches for health and safety is allowed for property owners, but removing or pruning large or protected trees, or work on boulevard trees, typically requires a permit and coordination with City staff. Protected trees may include specimen, heritage or large-caliper trees as defined by the City’s policies and bylaws. Emergency removals for hazardous trees are treated differently and usually require post-work notification.

Always check municipal permit rules before any major pruning or removal.

When you need a permit

  • Removing a tree above a specified diameter or a protected species usually requires a tree removal permit and a tree protection plan.[2]
  • Work on boulevard or municipal trees requires City authorization and may only be done by City crews or licensed contractors.
  • Significant pruning that affects tree health or structure can be restricted without an approved arborist report.
  • Seasonal restrictions may apply for nesting birds or other environmental protections; check timing guidance with Parks/Urban Forestry.
Unpermitted removal may trigger restoration orders and fines.

Penalties & Enforcement

Specific monetary fines, escalation procedures and non-monetary sanctions are set out in the City bylaws and enforcement notices; where exact fee amounts or wording are not reproduced on the public guidance pages, the text below notes that the amount is not specified on the cited page. For the controlling bylaw text and enforcement authority see the City of Burnaby bylaw resources.[3]

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat and continuing offence escalation details are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: restoration orders, mandatory replanting, injunctive court actions and work orders may be applied as enforcement tools; exact remedies are documented in the bylaw text or enforcement notices.
  • Enforcer: By-law Enforcement and Parks/Urban Forestry coordinate inspections, complaints and enforcement actions; contact information and complaint forms are provided by the City.
  • Appeals/review: formal appeal routes and time limits are governed by the applicable bylaw or administrative decisions; the City pages do not specify exact appeal periods on the public guidance pages.
  • Defences/discretion: permitted works, emergency removals, approved permits or approved arborist reports are typical defences; discretionary variances may be available through planning processes.
If you are served an order, follow the compliance steps immediately and document communications.

Applications & Forms

  • Tree removal permit application: name/number not specified on the cited page; contact the City for the current form and submission method.[2]
  • Arborist report or tree protection plan: may be required with many applications; fees and technical requirements are described on permit pages or in application checklists.
  • Fees: specific fee schedules are published by the City where available; if a fee is not shown on the guidance page it is not specified on the cited page.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to prune a tree on my private property?
Minor pruning for routine maintenance is usually allowed, but removing or pruning significant branches or protected trees may require a permit; check City guidance and consult Urban Forestry.
Who enforces tree bylaws in Burnaby?
By-law Enforcement and Parks/Urban Forestry jointly manage inspections and enforcement; complaints are submitted through the City’s complaint page.
What happens if I remove a tree without a permit?
Consequences can include fines, restoration orders and mandatory replanting; exact penalties are set in the bylaw and enforcement notices.
Can I appeal a removal or restoration order?
Appeal routes depend on the issuance instrument; consult the bylaw or contact the City for appeal timelines and procedures.

How-To

  1. Confirm whether the tree is protected or on municipal property by checking the City’s tree guidance pages and maps.
  2. Obtain or download the tree removal permit application and checklist from the City’s permit pages.
  3. Commission an ISA-certified arborist report if required, and prepare a tree protection plan with required drawings.
  4. Submit the application, supporting documents and payment via the City’s online portal or the indicated submission method.
  5. Schedule inspections and obtain written approval before work; after completion, provide required post-work documentation.

Key Takeaways

  • Permits are commonly required for removals and major pruning on private and municipal trees.
  • Contact By-law Enforcement or Parks/Urban Forestry early to avoid enforcement actions.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Burnaby - Trees and Urban Forestry
  2. [2] City of Burnaby - Tree removal permits and applications
  3. [3] City of Burnaby - Tree protection bylaw and enforcement

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