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Tree removal laws in Calgary for land development

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If you’re planning a construction project in Calgary, whether it’s a residential renovation or a large-scale development, clearing trees may be part of your site prep. But proceed with caution: unauthorized tree removal can lead to fines up to $10,000 per offense, delays, and stop-work orders. Knowing the rules is essential.



Understand Calgary’s Tree Bylaws

Calgary’s municipal bylaws strictly regulate tree removal, especially for public trees on City-owned land. These laws apply to both developers and homeowners.


Tree Protection Bylaw (23M2002)

  • Covers public trees (on boulevards, parks, and roadways).

  • Prohibits cutting, pruning, attaching items, applying chemicals, or causing damage.

  • Penalties:

    • Up to $10,000 per offense for serious violations.

    • Smaller fines ($100–$1,000) for infractions like attaching signs or ignoring orders.



Streets Bylaw (20M88) & Trees and Shrubs Bylaws

  • Trees must not obstruct sidewalks (2.5 m clearance) or roadways (4.3 m).

  • Fines: $100–$500 per infraction, up to $1,000 for enforcement breaches.

  • Applies to both public and private trees that overhang public spaces.


Unsure if your trees comply? Evergreen LTD offers clearance checks and expert pruning services.


Know When Permits Are Required

Before removing or disturbing any tree, you must assess whether a Tree Protection Plan (TPP) is needed.


A TPP Is Mandatory If:

  • Construction occurs within 6 metres of a public tree.

  • You’re applying for a development or building permit.


What a TPP Must Include:

  • A Public Tree Disclosure Statement: species, size, location.

  • Protective fencing plans: 4 m radius Tree Protection Zones.

  • Pre/post-construction care: watering schedules, soil protection, signage.

  • Contractor briefings on protected zones.


Reminder: TPPs must be submitted and approved before work begins.

Let Evergreen LTD prepare your Tree Protection Plan to keep your project compliant from day one.


Use Only Authorized Arborists and Contractors

Work on public trees in Calgary must be performed by City-approved contractors, which includes:

  • ISA-certified arborists.

  • Proper insurance and Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) coverage.

  • AHS safety training certifications.



Watch for Common Violations

Avoid these frequent mistakes that lead to penalties:

  • Removing a public tree without a permit.

  • Building too close to a tree without proper fencing or documentation.

  • Neglecting to maintain clearance from sidewalks and roads.

  • Allowing contractors to damage tree roots or compact soil in a protection zone.


Don’t take chances, schedule a pre-construction tree risk assessment with Evergreen LTD.


Best Practices to Stay Compliant

Take these steps to ensure your project runs smoothly and by the book:


1. Get an Arborist Assessment Early

  • Identify public vs. private trees.

  • Develop compliant TPPs and removal plans.



2. File Permits with Your Development Application

  • Submit TPPs with your development or building permit.

  • Don’t begin construction until all approvals are received.


3. Hire Certified, Approved Contractors

  • Only use teams that meet the City’s professional standards.


Avoid project delays, work with Evergreen LTD’s ISA-certified professionals.


4. Maintain Public Clearance on Private Trees

  • Trim trees regularly to keep sidewalk/road clearances.

  • Respond promptly to any City notices or public complaints.


Evergreen LTD offers routine tree maintenance plans tailored for developers and homeowners.


5. Monitor Tree Protections Throughout the Build

  • Inspect fencing and signage.

  • Keep contractors informed.

  • Water, mulch, and protect tree roots during work.


6. Consider Tree Preservation Over Removal

  • Adjust site plans to avoid cutting down trees, when possible.

  • Preserving mature trees can improve site aesthetics and reduce liability.


Not sure whether to remove or preserve? Evergreen LTD provides expert site tree evaluations.


How Enforcement Works

Violations are often triggered by 311 complaints from the public. Once a report is filed:

  • A City inspector may visit your site.

  • Violations can lead to immediate orders, fines, or stop-work directives.

  • During active construction, inspectors routinely verify compliance with TPPs.



Stay Ahead of Fines, and Protect Calgary’s Urban Forest

Tree-related penalties can stall your build and impact your budget. But with expert guidance, you can navigate Calgary’s tree bylaws confidently.


Partnering with a certified Calgary arborist like Evergreen LTD helps you:

  • Identify risks early.

  • Submit legally compliant documentation.

  • Implement protection measures correctly.

  • Avoid fines and build responsibly.


Take Action Today

  • Planning development? Book a pre-construction site consultation.

  • Need a TPP? Get help from Evergreen LTD with professional submissions.

  • Concerned about overgrown branches? We’ll help with trimming and compliance.

  • Facing a City warning or fine? Call Evergreen LTD for immediate support.


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