Checked
Protect trees during construction in Maple Ridge
Maple Ridge, British Columbia, Canada
Maple Ridge, British Columbia, Canada. Retained trees need protection before development work begins. Maple Ridge may require barriers, root protection, arbori
Key information
Retained trees need protection before development work begins. Maple Ridge may require barriers, root protection, arborist monitoring and a tree management plan. Removing a barrier early can undermine the permit conditions.
On this page
Plan before clearing or excavation
A tree management plan is required for subdivision, rezoning, development permit, variance, building or demolition permit sites. It is also required for proposals removing ten or more protected trees or clearing more than 500 square metres.
The site may need an arborist impact assessment, risk report, root mapping, survey and replacement plan. The city publishes standard report requirements. Use the relevant checklist rather than a generic drawing.
Sources: Current tree protection and management requirements
Protect retained trees on site
Required measures can include tree protection barriers, protection of the critical root zone, arborist supervision and limits on excavation, grading, storage and machinery near retained trees.
Install and obtain any required approval for protection before starting work. Pruning should not exceed a quarter of the live crown. Topping is not allowed. Tree protection extends beyond avoiding a direct cut to the trunk.
Sources: Current tree protection and management requirements
Finish the work and securities
Keep barriers until work is complete and the arborist signs off. The arborist submits the final inspection report to the city. Retained-tree security release follows the city’s stated approval conditions, not simply the contractor leaving site.
For replacement-tree security, 50% can be released after planting approval. The balance may be released a year later if the city approves tree condition. If planting on site is not feasible, the Manager may require cash in lieu under the fee bylaw.
Sources: Current tree protection and management requirements
Key details at a glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Management plan scale trigger | Ten or more protected trees, or clearing over 500 m² |
| Barriers | Installed before work and retained until completion/sign-off |
| Pruning ceiling | A quarter of the existing live crown |
| Replacement security first release | 50% after city planting approval |
| Replacement security balance | One year later, subject to condition approval |
Sources: Current tree protection and management requirements
Steps to follow
- Prepare tree plan
Match reports to the development and clearing scope.
- Install protection
Control root-zone disturbance before work begins.
- Get arborist sign-off
Submit completion evidence before security release.
Sources: Current tree protection and management requirements
Useful questions and answers
Does a building permit site need a tree management plan?
The city lists building-permit sites among the plan triggers.
How many proposed removals trigger the plan requirement?
Ten or more protected trees.
What land-clearing area triggers a plan?
More than 500 square metres.
Can construction begin before required barriers are approved?
No. Required protection must be installed and approved before work.
Can materials be stored inside the protected root area?
The city can restrict storage, machinery and grading around retained trees.
Is topping an accepted way to reduce tree size?
No. It is prohibited tree damage under the city bylaw.
When can the barriers come down?
After work is complete and the arborist has signed off.
Who submits the final tree inspection?
The project arborist submits a sign-off report to the city.
Is the entire replacement deposit returned immediately?
No. Half can be released after planting approval, with the balance a year later if tree condition is approved.
What if replacement planting is not feasible on site?
The Manager may require cash in lieu for trees not planted, under the fee bylaw.