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Private tree removal permits and protection rules in Langley Township
Langley Township, British Columbia, Canada
Township tree removal rules depend on tree size, land status and the reason for removal. Obtain the permit and check development conditions before cutting, even after storm damage.
Key information
Township tree removal rules depend on tree size, land status and the reason for removal. Obtain the permit and check development conditions before cutting, even after storm damage.
On this page
At a glance
| Task | Key detail |
|---|---|
| When is a tree removal permit needed? | Protected-tree cutting or removal needs a permit. |
| What evidence does an application need? | Trees unsuitable for their species, size or location need an arborist report. |
| Can I just prune or remove a hedge? | Sound horticultural pruning and hedges below 10 metres generally do not need this permit. |
Your next steps
- Check whether the tree is protected
Check whether the tree is protected.
- Review the permit requirements
Review the permit requirements.
- Apply before cutting or removal
Apply before cutting or removal.
Protected trees, measurement and exemptions
When is a tree removal permit needed?
Protected-tree cutting or removal needs a permit. Common qualifying reasons include a building project, a tree beyond recovery, imminent failure or a tree unsuitable for its size, species or location. Ownership alone does not give permission to remove a protected tree.
How is the 20-centimetre threshold measured?
Diameter at breast height is measured 1.4 metres above ground. For multiple stems, add 100% of the largest trunk's diameter and 60% of each extra trunk. Trees below 20 centimetres can still be protected if planted under development requirements.
Which lands have different rules?
The bylaw exempts Agricultural Land Reserve lands, specified licensed tree-production properties and lands under a development application. Development sites have separate tree-retention requirements. Verify land status in GeoSource and ask Development Services about conditions before relying on an exemption.
Application evidence and cutting conditions
What evidence does an application need?
Trees unsuitable for their species, size or location need an arborist report. Imminent-failure or dead, dying, diseased or badly damaged trees need photographs. Reports must meet the Township's guidelines, including location, assessment, inventory, risk analysis, maps and recommendations.
How do I apply and pay?
Apply online through Other Building Permits, under Tree Cutting or Removal on Private Property. Fees are collected before issue and credit cards have a 2.2% charge. The service page does not publish one universal total for all applications.
When may an approved tree be cut?
Display the permit tag at the property during work. Cutting is not allowed between 6pm and 8am, except for imminent failure. Permits normally last 12 months unless a shorter date is stated. Bird-nesting protections can still restrict the work.
Storms, shared trees and disposal
Can I just prune or remove a hedge?
Sound horticultural pruning and hedges below 10 metres generally do not need this permit. Topping, root damage within the drip line, bark removal and trunk damage are prohibited activities. Large conifer or deciduous hedges may need review.
What if a storm creates an urgent danger?
Take photographs showing the tree and threat. Call 604-533-6018 during business hours, or 604-543-6722 evenings and weekends before removal. The Township says even fallen trees require a valid permit and staff will document the urgent situation.
Who applies for strata or boundary trees?
Multi-family strata applications must come from the strata council. Other strata categories may need all owners' approval or an authorized agent. A tree shared across a boundary requires the adjacent owner's signed consent. Development-planted trees need separate checking.
How do I deal with street trees or leftover wood?
For municipal street-tree concerns, submit a service request or call 604-532-7300. Do not use the private-tree permit. Private wood waste may be chipped, hauled or taken to a transfer station; it cannot go in the Green Cart. Burning needs separate authorization.
Township service location
Township of Langley Civic Facility
20338 65 Avenue, Township of Langley, British Columbia
Municipal service location at 20338 65 Avenue. Customer Service is on the second floor. Use the relevant service contact first to confirm that an in-person visit is needed.
- Municipality
- Township of Langley, separate from Langley City
Sources: Utility Fees - Township of Langley