Checked
Tree cutting permits in Maple Ridge
Maple Ridge, British Columbia, Canada
Maple Ridge, British Columbia, Canada. Check tree protection before cutting, removing or heavily pruning. Maple Ridge’s 2026 bylaw protects trees at least 20 c
Key information
Check tree protection before cutting, removing or heavily pruning. Maple Ridge’s 2026 bylaw protects trees at least 20 cm in diameter, significant trees, replacement trees and smaller trees in specified protected areas.
On this page
Recognize a protected tree
Protected trees include trees with a diameter at breast height of at least 20 cm, significant trees at least 60 cm, city trees, replacement and covenanted trees, and trees required by development approvals. Trees of any size in riparian or conservation areas are protected.
Measure diameter 1.4 metres above the highest natural ground at the base. For multiple stems, add the diameters of the three largest stems. Trees with raptor, osprey or heron nesting evidence have added protection.
Sources: Current tree protection and management requirements
Prepare an application
The owner or an authorized agent applies. Include the proper residential or development form, tree details, photographs and supporting reports. Agents need owner consent; shared trees may need neighbour consent.
An arborist report is generally required, with a stated exception for a single non-significant, non-hazardous protected tree. Hazard assessment needs a qualified TRAQ arborist. Contact Trees@MapleRidge.ca or 604-467-7349 before treating a dead-tree or imminent-failure exemption as applicable.
Sources: Current tree protection and management requirements
Approval, posting and replacement
Submit to Trees@MapleRidge.ca, pay the invoiced fee and wait for issuance. Permits last six months. The permit and specified tree and contact details must be publicly posted at least 24 hours before cutting and remain until work is finished.
At least one replacement tree is generally required, with the number depending on the removed tree and permit conditions. A written reconsideration request can be sent within 30 days of the city’s decision.
Sources: Current tree protection and management requirements
Key details at a glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Protected size | At least 20 cm DBH |
| Significant size | At least 60 cm DBH |
| Measurement height | 1.4 metres above highest natural ground at base |
| Permit validity | Six months |
| Posting before cutting | At least 24 hours |
| Reconsideration request | Within 30 days |
Sources: Current tree protection and management requirements
Steps to follow
- Assess protection
Measure and check site and permit-related conditions.
- Apply with reports
Provide consent, tree details and required arborist evidence.
- Wait and post
Do not cut before issuance and required public posting.
Sources: Current tree protection and management requirements
Useful questions and answers
Does a tree under 20 cm always escape protection?
No. Location, replacement status, development conditions, covenants or nesting can protect smaller trees.
Where is DBH measured?
1.4 metres above the highest natural grade at the tree base.
How are multi-stemmed trees measured?
Add the diameters of the three largest stems.
Can a contractor apply without the owner’s consent?
An authorized agent needs owner consent with the application.
Are trees in a riparian area protected regardless of size?
Yes. The city protects trees of any size in riparian and conservation areas.
How long does a tree permit last?
Six months from issuance.
When must the permit be posted?
At least 24 hours before cutting, in a public-facing location, until work is complete.
Can I top a protected tree?
No. The city treats topping as prohibited tree damage.
Does removal usually require replacement?
Yes. At least one replacement is generally required, with exact numbers set by the bylaw and permit.
How soon can I ask for reconsideration?
Submit a written request within 30 days of the decision.