Register Memorial Tree in Montréal Parks - City Bylaw

Parks and Public Spaces Quebec 3 Minutes Read · published February 11, 2026 Flag of Quebec · By Daniel Roy

In Montréal, Quebec, individuals and families can request the planting or dedication of a memorial tree in certain city parks. This guide explains the municipal framework, who manages requests, typical eligibility and placement rules, and practical steps to apply, pay, appeal or report issues to city services. The City of Montréal publishes urban forestry and park rules on its official site, which should be consulted for current details and contact information.[1]

Overview

Memorial tree programs typically allow a tree to be planted or dedicated to commemorate a person or event. The City evaluates requests based on park use, tree species suitability, long-term maintenance, and compatibility with existing landscaping plans. Programs may be seasonal and subject to available planting budgets and operational plans.

Eligibility & Rules

  • Who can apply: residents and next of kin or authorized representatives.
  • Eligible locations: selected municipal parks and green spaces determined by the parks department.
  • Species and placement: species approved by urban forestry, placement subject to site assessment.
  • Maintenance: the city usually assumes short-term establishment care; long-term upkeep follows municipal planting policies.
Requests are assessed case-by-case to protect park ecology and access.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement for unauthorized tree planting, damage to municipal trees, or violations of park planting rules falls under city bylaws and urban forestry regulations. Specific fines, escalation and non-monetary sanctions depend on the applicable municipal regulation and the facts of the case.

  • Fines: monetary amounts for illegal planting or tree damage are not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offence ranges are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: may include orders to remedy damage, removal of unauthorized plantings, seizure of materials, or prosecution in municipal court as provided by the controlling bylaw.
  • Enforcer: Service des grands parcs, du verdissement et du Mont-Royal (urban forestry and parks enforcement) and Montréal By-law Enforcement divisions handle inspections and complaints.

Inspection and complaint pathways: report damage or unauthorized plantings through the City's service request or parks complaint page; see Help and Support below for official contacts. Appeal and review routes for enforcement decisions follow municipal procedures; time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited page and should be confirmed with the enforcing department.[1]

If you find an unauthorized tree or damage, report it promptly to preserve evidence.

Applications & Forms

The City provides guidance on tree programs and requests on its urban forestry pages. A specific memorial-tree application form or fee schedule is not published on the cited page; applicants should contact the parks or urban forestry service to confirm current forms, fees, and submission methods.[1]

  • Form name/number: not specified on the cited page.
  • Fee: not specified on the cited page.
  • How to submit: contact the parks or urban forestry service for current submission procedures.

Action Steps

  • Contact urban forestry to request eligibility and the current application process.
  • Provide proposed dedication text, preferred park location, and any required proof of residency or authorization.
  • Confirm fees (if any) and payment method before planting is scheduled.
  • Attend or appoint a representative for any placement meeting or site inspection.

FAQ

Can non-residents request a memorial tree?
Eligibility varies; applicants should contact the parks service for confirmation of residency requirements and authorization rules.
How long does a request take?
Timelines depend on seasonality and planting schedules; the cited page does not specify exact processing times.
Will the city place a plaque?
Plaque policies differ by program; plaque provision and wording are determined by the parks or memorials policy and may incur fees.

How-To

  1. Contact the City’s urban forestry or parks office to express interest and request the memorial tree procedure.
  2. Complete any application provided by the department and submit required documents or authorizations.
  3. Agree on species and location after the site assessment by city staff.
  4. Pay fees if required; confirm the planting schedule.
  5. Follow any maintenance guidance and report post-planting concerns to the parks service.

Key Takeaways

  • Requests are reviewed case-by-case to protect park ecology and access.
  • Contact urban forestry or parks early to confirm forms, fees and timelines.

Help and Support / Resources


  1. [1] City of Montréal - Trees and urban forestry
Daniel Roy

Daniel Roy

Municipal Bylaw Analyst

Daniel analyses municipal bylaws across Canadian provinces and territories. He checks every guide against official municipal and provincial sources.