The City of Pitt Meadows has officially introduced a new interim rule that requires property owners to obtain a permit before removing certain trees on their land. The temporary measure was adopted on March 3, 2026, to protect the local tree canopy while the municipality works toward creating permanent regulations.
Under the new Interim Tree Management Bylaw No. 3035, 2026, residents must get approval from the City of Pitt Meadows Planning and Development Services before cutting down any tree that has a diameter at breast height (about 1.4 metres above ground) of 20 centimetres or greater. This includes trees with multiple stems that have a combined diameter at breast height of 20 centimetres or more. The bylaw was signed by Mayor Nicole MacDonald and Corporate Officer Kate Barchard following a vote by city council.
This policy shift marks the first time the city has regulated tree removal on private property, an effort to prevent the clearing of trees before a permanent plan is finished. The city’s Urban Forest Strategy, endorsed in 2024, sets a long-term goal of reaching 30 per cent tree canopy coverage across the city by 2050. Achieving this target is expected to require the planting of approximately 11,500 new trees.
Costs for the new permits vary based on the project type. Non-development permit applications cost $50, plus an additional $50 per tree. Development permits require a $300 application fee, plus $50 per tree. If a property owner cannot plant replacement trees, the city may collect a cash-in-lieu payment of $900 per tree for non-development projects or $1,500 per tree for development projects.
Several exemptions apply, including properties in the Agricultural Land Reserve, active farming operations, and trees removed by utility companies for infrastructure. Additionally, dead or hazardous trees may be removed if confirmed by a certified arborist. Residents should also note that tree cutting is prohibited during bird nesting season, which runs from March 1 to August 31, unless a qualified environmental professional confirms there are no active nests.
The city is inviting residents to provide input as they finalize the permanent tree protection rules. Further information and opportunities to share feedback are available at the City of Pitt Meadows website.
