Tree Protection Requirements

Severing tree roots, compacting soil or changing the grade in the critical root zone of a tree can impact both the health and stability of a tree.  

• You are only permitted to excavate on one side of a tree and not within 3.0 metres of the trunk.
• If construction takes place when soil moisture levels are high, it increases compaction within the drip zone.  To prevent compaction, 150mm (6”) of woodchip mulch must be placed on any area under the drip line of a protected tree if it is not fenced off.
• All exposed roots must be pruned with a sharp pruning tool to provide a clean severance of the root.
• Exposed roots must be protected from drying during construction and exposed roots must be backfilled as soon as possible.

​The best way to avoid tree damage at construction sites is to set up a protective fence to act as a physical barrier to keep vehicles, equipment, and materials away from trees.  For safety reasons, an underground utility check must be completed before installing the fence to ensure you do not hit any buried utilities.  Construction of the protective fencing will be inspected and must be acceptable to Urban Forestry.

• Protective fencing must be constructed of either:
  • a solid wood frame with orange snow fencing securely stapled to the outside; or
  • snow fencing fastened securely to metal stakes spaced no more than 1 meter apart; or
  • metal construction fencing.
• Protective fencing must:
  • Be at least 1.2 meters high measured from the ground
  • Not interfere with access to fire hydrants and sidewalks or obscure intersections and traffic signage
  • Be sturdy with vertical posts driven firmly into the ground to keep it in place
  • Stay in good repair for the duration of the demolition or construction project.