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Private tree cutting permits and replacement trees in Coquitlam
Coquitlam, British Columbia, Canada
Coquitlam’s tree permit rules depend on the tree, site and number being removed. Sensitive land, protective covenants and two named streets have stricter rules.
Key information
Coquitlam’s tree permit rules depend on the tree, site and number being removed. Sensitive land, protective covenants and two named streets have stricter rules. Obtain the required permit and owner authorizations before arranging the work.
On this page
At a glance
| Task | Key detail |
|---|---|
| What is a protected tree under the city’s stated rule? | It includes a living woody plant at least 20 centimetres in diameter measured 1.4 metres above ground, a replacement tree or a tree planted as a development requirement. |
| Who may submit the application? | A homeowner, property manager or contractor may submit it, but the property owner must authorize the request. |
| What permit fees are listed? | A basic application costs $71.50. |
Sources: Tree Cutting Permit | Coquitlam, BC · Private Property Trees | Coquitlam, BC
Protected trees and sensitive-site exceptions
What is a protected tree under the city’s stated rule?
It includes a living woody plant at least 20 centimetres in diameter measured 1.4 metres above ground, a replacement tree or a tree planted as a development requirement. Do not assess the rule by height alone. Development-related removals use a separate process.
Can an ordinary property remove two protected trees without a permit?
In most cases the bylaw allows up to two protected trees per year without a cutting permit. More than two requires one. This is subject to important site exceptions, so the number alone is not enough to determine whether your proposed removal is exempt.
Which sites need a permit for every tree removal?
The page lists streamside or riparian areas, steep slopes, protective-covenant land, and properties on Burian Drive or Latimer Avenue. Check the land title and site conditions first. These restrictions apply even when the removal count would otherwise be no more than two.
Sources: Tree Cutting Permit | Coquitlam, BC
Documents, submission and fees
Who may submit the application?
A homeowner, property manager or contractor may submit it, but the property owner must authorize the request. A tree straddling a property line needs written consent from both owners. A strata applicant also needs a management-company letter confirming authority to act for the strata.
When is an arborist risk report required?
An ISA Certified Arborist report is required for trees near a watercourse, on a steep slope, within a vegetation covenant area, or on Burian Drive or Latimer Avenue. The city does not perform private-property risk assessments or tree work itself.
How do I apply and get help?
Apply through the city’s Permits and Applications Portal with the documents required for your site. Keep the valid permit onsite during removal. If the portal causes problems, contact Parks Customer Service at 604-927-6300 or parkscustomerservice@coquitlam.ca.
Sources: Tree Cutting Permit | Coquitlam, BC · Private Property Trees | Coquitlam, BC
Replacement inspection and responsible tree work
What permit fees are listed?
A basic application costs $71.50. Applications needing extra documentation, such as an arborist report, or a technician visit cost $358. Replacement-tree security is a separate $300 deposit per tree, due when the permit is issued. Confirm the assessed category before paying.
How are replacement trees and deposits handled?
Replacement requirements depend on lot size and remaining protected trees outside streamside areas; provincial standards apply in riparian areas. Follow the city planting requirements and book an inspection. The page describes a 90% deposit return after planting passes inspection, with the balance governed by the permit conditions.
Can I choose any replacement species?
Use the city’s recommended class list, or obtain approval before planting an unlisted species. Columnar varieties count as Class B and weeping varieties as Class C. Hedge species, shrubs and dwarf varieties are not accepted as replacement trees under the stated requirements.
What should I check before pruning or hiring a contractor?
The tree-work contractor must hold a valid Coquitlam or other Tri-Cities business licence. Pruning must not damage a protected tree; topping is prohibited. The city advises speaking with neighbours and using an ISA arborist for private-tree work. Boundary disputes are not resolved by this permit guide.
Sources: Tree Cutting Permit | Coquitlam, BC · Private Property Trees | Coquitlam, BC