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Richmond, BC tree-removal permits: forms, measurements and reporting
Richmond, British Columbia, Canada
Richmond, British Columbia generally requires a permit before cutting or removing a private tree larger than 20 centimetres in diameter, measured 1.4 metres above ground. Choose the correct form for ordinary removal, demolition/new construction or rezoning-related work.
Key information
Richmond, British Columbia generally requires a permit before cutting or removing a private tree larger than 20 centimetres in diameter, measured 1.4 metres above ground. Choose the correct form for ordinary removal, demolition/new construction or rezoning-related work.
On this page
Key details
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| General threshold | More than 20 cmtrunk diameter at 1.4 mheight |
| Ordinary/non-development removal | PL-20 application |
| Demolition/new construction | PL-37/T 2 application |
| Rezoning in progress | PL-48/T 3 application |
| Application destination | permitsinfo@richmond.ca or City Hall, Attention: Permits |
Sources: Tree Protection Bylaw
Before you start
The permit system aims to retain viable trees and require replacements when removal is approved. Applying does not itself authorize cutting. Identify the tree’s exact location and use the appropriate project category so staff review the right request.
The current page distinguishes the arborist report, construction protection fencing and replacement-tree guidance in linked bulletins. These technical requirements can depend on the site and project. This guide does not turn a general size threshold into an exemption for every smaller tree or every development site.
Sources: Tree Protection Bylaw
Rules and exceptions
- Provide a Letter of Authorization if applying for a property you do not own. The city also provides a strata-property authorization form.
- Supporting material must clearly show the tree locations or include photographs.
- The city prohibits tree topping on private and city property. It reports fines that can reach $50,000 per tree; cutting the top is not presented as a permit-free alternative.
- Construction-related work may need existing-tree protection fencing, a survey and site-supervision/post-construction reports described in the city bulletins.
- Replacement-tree species and replanting guidance are linked from the source. Do not assume any small ornamental tree satisfies a permit condition.
- Regular questions or suspected unlawful cutting:604-276-4158, weekdays 8:15 a.m.-5 p.m., or TreeProtection@richmond.ca. After hours, report suspected cutting to the 24-hour city line 604-270-8721.
Sources: Tree Protection Bylaw
What to do next
- Identify the removal category
Separate non-development, demolition/construction and rezoning work.
- Prepare location evidence
Add photographs, required reports and owner/strata authorization.
- Submit and wait for approval
Use the city permit destination and follow any protection/replanting conditions.
Sources: Tree Protection Bylaw
Places and service locations
Richmond City Hall permits service
6911 No. 3 Road
Applications and supporting materials may be delivered or mailed to City Hall, Attention: Permits, or submitted by email.
Sources: Tree Protection Bylaw
Addresses come from the named service source. Maps locate the site and do not promise a verified accessible entrance. Seasonal status is stated where verified.
Sources: Tree Protection Bylaw
Useful questions and answers
What is the published general size threshold?
A tree larger than 20 centimetres in diameter at breast height generally needs a permit.
Source: Tree Protection Bylaw
Which form covers demolition or new construction?
PL-37, described as theT 2 application.
Source: Tree Protection Bylaw
Can a representative apply without owner paperwork?
The city asks for a Letter of Authorization when the applicant is not the registered owner.
Source: Tree Protection Bylaw
What location evidence is needed?
Supporting material must clearly identify the tree locations or include photos.
Source: Tree Protection Bylaw
Is topping a tree an allowed substitute for removal?
No. The city prohibits topping on private and city property.
Source: Tree Protection Bylaw
Where can I send the application?
permitsinfo@richmond.ca or Richmond City Hall, Attention: Permits.
Source: Tree Protection Bylaw
Where do I report suspected cutting after hours?
The 24-hour city emergency line is 604-270-8721.
Source: Tree Protection Bylaw