Our Public Trees are Important
Trees on public land have a value to the community. They provide shade and shelter for humans and wildlife, act as important barriers to wind and erosion, increase property value, and improve the aesthetic appeal of a community.
Each building or development application must include identifying public trees within 6 metres of the site. A Town of Canmore "Town Tree" which has any part of its trunk located on a public place. It is important to know where your property lines are, as most properties do not extend to the sidewalk.
Every attempt to save the trees must be made first, which may include site redesign. If this is not possible, we will work with the developer on a solution that may include paying for the value of the tree (as valued by an arborist) before the trees can be removed. The funds will be used for future planting or maintenance of trees on public lands.
Other highlights of the bylaw include
- A requirement to protect public trees during construction. A protective barrier must be constructed around the tree so the tree does not become damaged during construction.
- Sometimes we need to remove trees to advance other community priorities. This bylaw doesn't affect activities like tree thinning for Firesmart or wildlife attractant removal.
- There are fines for violations of the bylaw, outlined in the Master Fee Schedule.
To apply to protect, remove, or prune/relocate a tree on public land, please download and fill out the Tree Protection Plan Agreement application form.
For more information, quesitons, or to submit the completed form & corresponding documents, email us at parks@canmore.ca.