Do You Need a Permit to Remove a Tree in Calgary?

You have a tree you want removed, maybe it is dead, maybe it is too close to your house, or maybe you just want more sun in your yard. Before you hire someone to take it down, you need to understand Calgary's tree removal rules. The answer to whether you need a permit depends on where the tree is and what kind of tree it is.

Trees on Private Property

The good news for most Calgary homeowners is that the City generally does not require a permit to remove a tree on your own private property. If the tree is entirely within your lot lines and is not on city land, you are typically free to remove it at your discretion.

However, there are important exceptions. If your property is within certain land-use districts or subject to a development permit, tree preservation conditions may apply. New communities with environmental reserve designations sometimes have covenants requiring tree retention. If you are unsure, check your land title or contact the City's planning department.

Trees on City Property

This is where the rules get strict. Any tree on city-owned land, which includes boulevards, parks, green spaces, and the strip of land between your sidewalk and the street, is protected under Calgary's Street Bylaw 20M88 and the Parks and Pathways Bylaw 20M2003. You cannot prune, damage, or remove a city tree without explicit permission from the City of Calgary's Urban Forestry department.

If a city-owned tree is causing problems, such as roots invading your sewer line, branches damaging your property, or the tree is dead and posing a hazard, you can submit a service request to the City. An urban forester will assess the tree and determine what action is appropriate. If removal is warranted, the City handles it at no cost to you.

Elm Trees: Special Rules

All elm trees in Calgary, whether on private or public property, are protected under the provincial Community Standards Bylaw related to Dutch Elm Disease prevention. While this does not necessarily prevent removal, it does regulate pruning timing. Elm trees can only be pruned between October 1 and March 31 to prevent the spread of DED through elm bark beetles that are attracted to fresh cuts during warm months.

If you need an elm tree removed, it is best practice to ensure the wood is properly disposed of. Elm wood should not be stored as firewood, as it can harbour the bark beetles that spread Dutch Elm Disease. Your tree care company should handle proper disposal.

Development and Construction Projects

If you are undertaking a renovation, addition, or new construction project that requires a development permit, tree protection becomes a formal requirement. The City's development review process includes assessment of existing trees on and near the property. You may be required to protect certain trees during construction using fencing around the root zone, and removal of significant trees may require replacement plantings as a condition of your permit.

Developers in new communities often face stricter requirements, including tree surveys, protection plans, and replacement ratios. Damaging or removing trees without following the approved plan can result in fines and stop-work orders.

What About Neighbouring Trees

A common question is what you can do about a neighbour's tree that overhangs your property. In Alberta, you generally have the right to trim branches that cross your property line, but only up to the property line and not in a way that harms the health of the tree. You cannot enter your neighbour's property to do the work, and you cannot cut the trunk if it is on their land.

For shared trees, where the trunk straddles the property line, the tree is jointly owned and both parties need to agree on any removal. These situations often benefit from a conversation with your neighbour and a professional assessment from an arborist who can provide a neutral opinion.

Fines and Enforcement

Removing or damaging a city-owned tree without authorization can result in significant fines. The City of Calgary can charge the cost of replacing the tree, which for a large mature specimen can run into thousands of dollars. The replacement value is calculated based on the tree's species, size, condition, and location using an industry-standard formula.

When in doubt, a quick call to the City of Calgary's 311 service or a consultation with a professional arborist can clarify what applies to your specific situation. It is always easier to get the rules right up front than to deal with fines or disputes after the fact.