Memorial Tree Program Application - Burnaby Bylaw

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

Introduction

Burnaby, British Columbia permits memorial tree recognitions in selected parks and public spaces through a municipal program administered by the City of Burnaby Parks Department. This guide explains how to apply, what approvals or permits may be required, who enforces relevant bylaws, likely timelines, and practical steps to follow when requesting a memorial tree on City-managed land.

Program Overview

The Memorial Tree Program provides an option for families or groups to plant or dedicate a tree in memory of a person or event in a City park. Available locations, planting seasons, and placement rules are determined by Parks staff to protect canopy, habitat, and infrastructure. For official program details and to start an application, consult the City of Burnaby Memorial Trees page Memorial Tree Program[1].

Apply early for spring or fall planting windows to increase approval chances.

Eligibility & Location

  • Eligibility is limited to City-managed parks and approved planting sites selected by Parks staff.
  • Requests that conflict with environmental protections, utility corridors, or planned works will not be approved.
  • Contact Parks for site-specific guidance and to arrange a site meeting if required.

Application Process

The application typically requires applicant contact information, proposed dedication text (if any), species preference, and payment of any applicable fees or donations. Submit the application using the City of Burnaby Parks application channel on the Memorial Trees page Memorial Tree Program[1]. Processing time depends on season and site review.

The City selects species and exact planting locations to support park management objectives.

Applications & Forms

Form name and number: Not specified on the cited page; consult the Memorial Trees page for the current application form and submission instructions.
Fee: Not specified on the cited page; fees or donation amounts are posted on the official program page when applicable.
How to submit: Online via the City of Burnaby Parks program page or by contacting Parks Administration as directed on that page.
Deadlines: Seasonal windows apply; specific deadlines are not specified on the cited page.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement for unauthorized tree planting, damage to trees, or failing to follow approved memorial conditions is managed under City bylaws and Parks regulations. The City of Burnaby By-law and Parks staff administer compliance actions. Specific monetary fines or penalty schedules for memorial-tree program violations are not specified on the Memorial Trees program page; consult the City bylaws and By-law Enforcement for exact penalty provisions and procedures[2].

Always obtain written approval before planting or placing memorial plaques to avoid enforcement action.

Enforcement details

  • Enforcer: By-law Enforcement and Parks staff enforce park rules and tree protections.
  • Fines: Not specified on the cited page; specific fine amounts and schedules must be confirmed in the applicable City bylaws or enforcement notices[2].
  • Escalation: Whether enforcement follows a warning, ticket, or prosecution pathway is set out in enforcement policy or the controlling bylaw and is not specified on the program page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: Orders to remove unapproved plantings or memorial items, repair or restoration directions, and court action may apply depending on the breach.
  • Inspection and complaints: Report suspected unauthorized works or damage to By-law Enforcement via the City contacts listed in Help and Support.

Appeals and Reviews

Appeal routes and time limits for enforcement decisions are defined in the relevant bylaw or enforcement policy; specific time limits are not specified on the Memorial Trees page and must be confirmed with By-law Enforcement or legal notices published with the controlling bylaw[2]. Where a permit or variance was refused, the City’s administrative review or Council appeal processes (if applicable) will be described in the controlling instrument.

How-To

  1. Contact Parks to confirm eligible locations and request the memorial tree application form.
  2. Complete the application, include preferred species and dedication wording, and attach any required documentation.
  3. Submit the application online or as directed by Parks and pay any applicable fees or donations.
  4. Await site review and written approval; arrange planting with City staff if the City performs planting or follow approved instructions if volunteer planting is allowed.
Keep records of approvals and payments to support any future queries or appeals.

FAQ

Can I plant a memorial tree myself?
No. Planting on City land requires written approval; unauthorized planting may be removed or require remedial action.
Are plaques allowed with memorial trees?
Plaques or markers require prior approval and may be limited by size, material, or placement rules.
How long does approval take?
Processing time varies with season and site review; specific timelines are not specified on the cited program page.

Key Takeaways

  • Apply through the City Parks Memorial Trees page to start the process and get the official form.
  • Do not plant or install memorial items without written City approval to avoid enforcement action.
  • Contact Parks or By-law Enforcement for site-specific guidance and appeals information.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Burnaby Memorial Tree Program
  2. [2] City of Burnaby Bylaws and Regulations

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