Tri-Cities Tree Bylaws: What Homeowners Need to Know

Before you remove a tree in the Tri-Cities, it's worth knowing that most municipalities regulate tree removal on private property — and the rules differ from city to city. Removing a protected tree without a permit can mean significant penalties. This is a plain-language overview; always confirm the current rules with your municipality before any work.

The rules vary by city

There is no single "Tri-Cities tree bylaw." Each municipality sets its own thresholds for when a permit is required, its own fees, and its own replacement-planting rules. What's allowed on a lot in Port Coquitlam may need a permit a few minutes away in Port Moody. The one constant: larger trees are protected, and trees near water are protected at much smaller sizes.

Port Moody

Port Moody updated its Tree Protection Bylaw in 2026. A permit is now required for trees 30cm DBH (diameter at breast height) or larger on any property, and for trees 10cm or larger in environmentally sensitive/riparian areas, of a protected native species, or on development sites. We cover this in detail in our Port Moody Tree Protection Bylaw guide.

Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Anmore & Belcarra

Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam both regulate tree removal through their own bylaws, with stricter protection near watercourses and on steep slopes. The smaller villages of Anmore and Belcarra have their own approaches, and their heavily treed, semi-rural lots often sit close to sensitive natural areas. Because thresholds and fees differ, check the specific city — our tree bylaws hub has a side-by-side reference and city-by-city detail.

Trees near creeks and ravines

This is the biggest trap for homeowners. Near a creek, ravine, or environmentally sensitive area, trees are typically protected at a much smaller size (often 10cm DBH), and federal fisheries rules can apply independently of the municipal bylaw near fish-bearing water. The size of the tree is not the only thing that matters — location does too.

Dead and hazardous trees

A common myth is that dead or hazardous trees can simply be removed. In most Tri-Cities municipalities a permit is still required — but the process is usually faster, the fee is often waived, and a written arborist assessment confirming the condition is what unlocks it.

Before you cut: a quick checklist

• How big is the tree (DBH at ~1.4m)?
• Is it near a creek, ravine, or sensitive area?
• Could it be a protected native species?
• Is the property under any development or building permit process?
• Is it dead, hazardous, or storm-damaged?

If the answer to any of these is "yes" or "maybe," confirm before removing.

Not sure where your tree stands? Send us photos and your address or neighbourhood and we'll help you figure out whether a permit applies — request a free estimate.