Harmonized Private Tree By-law, Updates to existing Woodland bylaws and Tree Protection Guidelines

In 2023, the Urban Forest Strategy was approved by Council – within the strategy is a target to grow the urban forest canopy to 40% by 2050. To help achieve this staff were directed to develop and seek public feedback on a Harmonized Private Tree Bylaw which would apply to the urban boundary only. Staff were also directed to update the existing Woodland Bylaws (regional and urban) and Tree Protection Guidelines, which apply to developments of 10 units or greater.

How do Bylaws help grow the urban canopy? Approximately 58% (5.2 million) of Hamilton’s trees are located on private property. Between 2021 and 2024, within the urban boundary, Hamilton has continued to lose tree canopy on private land. The Bylaws and Guidelines directly support the retention of trees on private property and increased compensation for trees removed. What size of tree is the Bylaw proposing to protect? A 45cm tree or greater on private property measured at 1.4m off the ground, known is the arboriculture industry as diameter at breast height.

Person hugging 45cm diameter tree at breast height

What are the impacts to me as resident?

The proposed Private Tree Bylaw will impact homeowners, as tree removals that meet the size threshold and do not meet an exemption will require a permit fee and the planting of replacement tree(s), creating additional costs for residents. The expanded list of exemptions is designed to limit these costs by ensuring trees removed for valid reasons are exempt, while preserving safe, healthy trees that contribute to the urban canopy.

Review Draft Bylaws & Guidelines

Review the draft Harmonized Private Tree By-law and proposed updates to the Urban Woodland By-law, Woodland Conservation By-Law, and Tree Protection Guidelines:

• Staff Report - Draft Harmonized Private Tree By-law (PED2014)
  • Appendix A: Draft Private Tree By-law
  • Appendix B: Draft Urban Woodland By-law
  • Appendix C: Draft Woodland Conservation By-law (City Wide)
  • Appendix D: Draft Tree Protection Guidelines
  • Appendix E: Summary of Stakeholder Engagement (Phase 1)
  • Appendix F: Summary of WSP Private Tree By-law Table