Background Information
You need a Tree Cutting Permit to alter, cut, or remove Protected trees in Saanich. Here is some information and the application form is below.
- See our Tree Protection Bylaw - Highlights for Property Owners for a quick overview of the bylaw.
- View the full Tree Protection Bylaw
Please note: Saanich staff only perform a visual inspection on private property trees in order to process tree permit application. Retain the services of an arborist for a detailed assessment of your tree.
If you are applying for a tree permit as part of a development permit (Building Permit, DP, Site Servicing etc.), Saanich Parks will be informed when your permit is processed and ready for review. Do not submit a separate request as it will not be processed.
The property owner, or the property owner's authorized agent, can submit an application.
You cannot prune a tree growing on municipally owned land, including trees on boulevards or in parks. Contact us for any tree work on public property.
Please attach any supporting documents to the end of the application. Use this link to SaanichMap to view an overhead image of your property and plot tree locations where possible, especially for a large acreage.
Pruning
You generally do not need a permit to perform basic pruning on a protected tree when done in accordance with sound arboriculture practices. We recommend you consult with an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist.
You require a Tree Cutting Permit when pruning a:
- Significant Tree;
- Tree protected via a Covenant;
- Tree's root system; or to
- Perform pruning that meets the definition of “altering” a protected tree (as defined in the Bylaw).
