In some situations, a permit may be required before a tree can be removed. Below is an overview of what the bylaw means and when a permit may be needed.
A Protected Tree is any tree that falls into one of the categories below. They can only be removed if they pose an immediate danger or may cause damage to property or infrastructure and may require a permit.
Environmentally Sensitive Area Trees: These are trees growing in areas the City has identified as ecologically important.
Significant Trees (75 cm DBH or more): These trees have a diameter at breast height (DBH) of 75 centimetres or larger.
Replacement Trees: These are trees that were planted in replacements under a previous permit.
Trees required during development: Trees that are required to stay on the property through the redevelopment process and trees on property lots with active development applications that are over 20 centimeters wide in DBH.
City Trees: Trees directly on City property or sharing City property lines
Penalty
Unauthorized removal of a Protected Tree can lead to fines starting at $3,000 per tree.
See the table below to see when a hazardous tree can be removed:
Tree DBH
Does the tree pose immediate risk or danger?
Result
75 cm or higher
Yes
Permit not required
City inspection of the cut tree is required before disposal
See where plants, animals, or ecosystems need extra protection in Langley City. View environmentally sensitive areas in Langley City on our interactive online map by selecting the map layers "Parks & Environment" and "Environmentally Sensitive Areas".
How to measure a tree’s diameter at breast height (DBH)
Step 1: Measure 1.4 metres up the trunk. Step 2: Wrap a measuring tape around the trunk (this gives the circumference). Step 3: Divide the circumference by 3.14 to get the diametre.
Special case
How to measure
Tree on a slope
Measure from the highest part of the slope and up 1.4 m of the trunk.
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Tree is leaning
At the 1.4 m from the ground, measure along the tree for the DBH.
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Tree forks/splits below 1.4 m
Measure the diametre of each stem 1.4 m from the ground. Add the diametres together for the total DBH.
If there are more than three stems, only add the total diametre of the three largest stems.
If the stems forks at exactly 1.4 m, measure just below the fork.
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Tree forks/splits above 1.4 m
Measure the main trunk 1.4 m from the ground.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
A permit is required for cutting or removing any Protected Trees except in the case of an emergency tree removal that poses immediate risk and danger to people or property or if a specific exemption has been granted by the City.
Contact our Engineering Department at engineering@langleycity.ca or call 604.514.2997. Please allow 3–5 days for a response.
If the tree is 75 cm in diametre or larger at breast height or above, you may be required to submit a tree permit application if it does not pose immediate danger or damage to property.
A permit is not required to trim a Protected Tree so long as the trimming is carried out in accordance with the most current ANSI standards and ISA Best Management Practices.
Homeowners who want to remove a Protected Tree and are not doing a development project have no financial or replacement obligations when applying for a Tree Permit.
No, only Langley City can trim or remove a city tree.
The arborist report must come from a certified individual who is in good standing with the International Society of Arboriculture and holds the International Society of Arboriculture's Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ).
The arborist report must clearly identify:
The Arborist's name
International Society of Arboriculture certification number
Planning to Develop Your Property?
Read the FAQs below.
Yes. If your property has an active development application of the following, you must obtain a Tree Permit before cutting or removing any Protected Tree, unless it poses immediate danger or risk.
Rezoning
Subdivision
Development Permit
Development Variance Permit
Demolition
The Director of Engineering, Parks and Environment may issue a permit if the tree is dead, hazardous (high/extreme risk), causing unmitigable damage, or removal is required to comply with another bylaw.
Yes, development applications require replacement trees or cash‑in‑lieu where planting is not feasible. Securities or a refundable deposit for retained/replacement of trees may also apply.
Tree Protection Barriers around Tree Protection Zones must be installed and maintained throughout the development period.
Note: In addition to City permits, property owners are responsible for following all applicable federal and provincial laws when removing trees. This includes, but is not limited to, the Migratory Birds Convention Act, Wildlife Act, Species at Risk Act (SARA), and Riparian Areas Protection Regulation. These laws may restrict tree removal during nesting seasons or in areas with protected species or habitats. Always confirm your obligations before starting work to avoid penalties.
