So you’re ready to bite the bullet and cut down that tree. Before you dig that chainsaw out of the garage or call your local tree company, there are a few important things you should know.
There are several reasons why someone may consider taking down a tree. New landscaping, disease and safety issues are just a few. No matter the reason, it’s important to inform yourself of the bylaws for your district.
It goes without saying that trees provide a number of benefits to our environment.
- provide habitat for wildlife by supplying food and shelter,
- absorb pollution, improve our air quality, and regulate microclimates,
- retain storm water and reduce flooding, and enhance the scenic landscape.
Trees and vegetation are particularly important in a riparian zone – the transitional area between aquatic and upland environments along the banks of watercourses. In a riparian zone, trees and vegetation also:
- reduce detrimental sediment, nutrients and water pollution,
- keep water shaded and cool for aquatic life, and
- minimize streambank erosion.
When trees and vegetation are removed, the ability of these areas to provide such benefits is greatly diminished or totally lost. To mitigate our impact on the environment, it is critically important to maintain healthy, mature trees and vegetated areas.
Knowing your city’s bylaws is important. Most local districts are serious about protecting urban forests by restricting tree removal from private lands and ensuring replacement trees are provided when trees are required to be removed.
The (BC) Tree Protection Bylaws differ from city to city. The easiest way to quickly find out what you need to know is by visiting your district’s website. Almost all of them have their bylaws available for easy online viewing. Alternatively, a quick call to your local district office can answer any questions you may have based on your individual circumstances.
