Do I need a permit to cut down a tree?

Trees & tree removal — Colwood, British Columbia: Urban Forest Bylaw No. 1735, 2018

In the City of Colwood, British Columbia, trees & tree removal rules are set by Urban Forest Bylaw No. 1735, 2018, verified 2026-09-27. Fines: not less than $1,000 and not more than $10,000. A permit is required. Protected threshold: Specific species 2.0m height/4.0cm diam; Douglas-fir, Grand Fir, Big Leaf Maple, Western Red Cedar 30cm DBH; Any tree 60cm DBH.

Urban Forest Bylaw No. 1735, 2018 adopted bylaw

permit required	yes	s. 4(1)(a)
applies to private property	yes	s. 3(1), s. 3(3)
protected threshold	Specific species 2.0m height/4.0cm diam; Douglas-fir, Grand Fir, Big Leaf Maple, Western Red Cedar 30cm DBH; Any tree 60cm DBH	s. 1 "protected tree"
replacement required	Required for cut/removed/damaged trees; 1:1 ratio (1-5 trees), 2:1 (>5 trees); cash-in-lieu allowed	s. 9(1)(a), s. 9(2), s. 9(8)
boulevard trees	Exempt if cut by City; cash-in-lieu revenue used to purchase, plant or maintain trees on City parks and boulevards.	s. 3(3), s. 9(11)
fine range	not less than $1,000 and not more than $10,000	s. 13(3)

scout note

Manages and protects Colwood's urban forest: tree management permits, replacement/protection requirements, securities, and enforcement for removal of protected trees.