PLEASE DON’T PLANT TREES ON CITY PROPERTY WITHOUT CITY PERMISSION

Given that we recently had a local community member planted some trees in the green space on 20th Ave (Dog Park) and on the boulevard the City has provided the following key point:

• Trees and shrubs are regulated under the Street Bylaw and under section 68(6) : No owner or occupant of private property adjacent to a Street shall plant any trees, plants, or shrubbery of any nature on the Boulevard without first obtaining a line assignment and excavation permit from the Director, Roads. – Essentially to plant on a city boulevard you need permission from the Roads Department
• All trees planted by Urban Forestry are sourced in accordance with the Clean Plants Program. This insures that the plant material we receive is free from pests and disease. The introduction of unknown trees and shrubs into a greenspace could potentially bring pest or disease that has an overall impact on the urban forest.
• Urban Forestry would not be aware of the “ random trees” so they would not be added into our inventory system. Our tree inventory is how we determine maintenance schedules, watering schedules, and regular inspections for health and risk.
• Appropriate placement and planting is essential so there is no interference or damage caused to underground utilities. Proper placement also allows maintenance activities such as mowing to remain efficient, and allow enough spacing so machinery and trees are not damaged.