Nanaimo Tree Bylaws & Removal Permits: What Homeowners Need to Know

The City of Nanaimo protects its urban forest through the Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 2013 No. 7126. This bylaw helps maintain canopy cover, wildlife habitat, stormwater management, and the character of our neighbourhoods. Many everyday tree jobs on private property are allowed without a permit, but certain trees and situations require one. Removing or heavily pruning the wrong tree without approval can result in significant fines.

​This guide explains the rules in plain language so Nanaimo residents can make informed decisions. Always verify the latest requirements with the City, as bylaws and processes can be updated. For complex situations, a professional assessment from our team is strongly recommended.

Do I Need a Tree Removal or Pruning Permit in Nanaimo BC?

You generally do NOT need a permit if:

• You are removing or pruning up to four non-significant trees that are 6 cm (about 2⅜ inches) or larger in diameter at breast height (DBH) in a single calendar year on your property.
• The trees are not classified as significant, heritage, or wildlife trees.
• The work is not in a Development Permit Area (DPA), watercourse setback, or other restricted zone.
• You are not removing a City tree or working on municipal land.

You likely NEED a permit if:

• You want to remove more than four trees ≥ 6 cm DBH in one year.
• The tree is a significant (landmark) tree based on species and size.
• The tree is listed as a heritage tree or protected as a wildlife tree.
• Work is required as part of development, subdivision, or construction.
• The tree is in a watercourse leave strip, steep slope, or other Development Permit Area.
• You plan extensive pruning or topping of a protected tree.

Non-native (ornamental) trees are typically not subject to the same significant-tree size thresholds as native species, but other rules (DPAs, nesting season, etc.) can still apply. When in doubt, check with the City or have our certified arborists evaluate the tree.

​How to Measure Tree Diameter (DBH)

Diameter at Breast Height is measured at 1.4 meters (4 feet 7 inches) above the ground.

1. Measure the circumference of the trunk at that height.
2. Divide by 3.14 (π) to get the diameter.

• Example: A circumference of 31.4 cm ≈ 10 cm DBH.

If the tree forks below 1.4 m, measure each stem separately or follow City guidance for multi-stem trees. Photos and measurements help when applying for a permit or requesting an assessment. We'll gladly do this work for you if you prefer.

Significant (Landmark) Trees – Size Thresholds

These native species become “significant” once they reach the minimum diameter listed below. Removing or extensively pruning them usually requires a permit.

Rocky Mountain Juniper, Garry Oak, Pacific Crabapple, Black Hawthorn, Western Dogwood | gains "significant" label at 10 cm |

Western Yew, Pacific Willow, Hooker’s Willow, Sitka Willow, Bitter Cherry, Cascara | gains "significant" label at 15 cm |

Western White Pine, Shore Pine, Trembling Aspen | gains "significant" label at 20 cm |

Douglas Maple | gains "significant" label at 40 cm |

Western Hemlock, Arbutus | gains "significant" label at 50 cm |

Sitka Spruce, Douglas Fir, Grand Fir, Western Red Cedar, Black Cottonwood, Bigleaf Maple | gains "significant" label at 80 cm |

Source: City of Nanaimo Tree Bylaw highlights and Schedules (PDF).

Heritage Trees vs. Wildlife Trees

• Heritage Trees: Specific trees of historic or cultural value are listed by species and location in Schedule A of the bylaw. These receive the highest level of protection.
• Wildlife Trees: Trees that provide nesting or habitat for protected species (for example, bald eagles or herons) under the provincial Wildlife Act. Special rules apply, and work during nesting season is heavily restricted.

If you suspect a tree falls into either category, contact the City’s Urban Forestry staff or have our arborists assess it before any work.

Hazardous Trees – Important Exemption

If a Certified Arborist (or Certified Landscape Horticulturist) determines that a tree, limb, or root is diseased, damaged, or hazardous and poses a risk that cannot reasonably be mitigated by pruning or other practical means:

• You may proceed after receiving written approval from the City’s Director.
• Standard arboricultural practices must be followed.
• If a significant tree is removed, replacement planting is normally required.
• There is typically no fee for a permit authorizing removal of a confirmed hazardous tree.

​This process protects public safety while still requiring professional documentation. We'll take the paperwork off your hands if you like. We literally do this all the time.

Application Process, Fees & Replacements

Applications are submitted to the City (forms are available on nanaimo.ca under Urban Forestry / Tree Removal Permit). You will usually need to provide:

• Property details and ownership information
• Purpose of the work
• Tree locations, species, and sizes (often with a simple plan or photos)
• In some cases a Tree Management Plan

Typical fees (confirm current amounts with the City):

• Application fee: $50
• Per non-significant tree (≥ 6 cm): $10
• Per significant tree: $100
• Maximum total fee: $2,500
• Hazardous tree permits: usually no fee

​Replacement requirements often apply. The bylaw sets ratios based on the size of the removed tree and whether it is a street tree or in a natural area. Replacement trees must generally be maintained for at least two years. Bonds may be required in development situations.

Reasons Nanaimo May Refuse a Permit

The City can refuse an application if the primary reason is to maintain or enhance private views, or for certain other reasons listed in the bylaw (including impacts on City or Crown trees, or conflict with riparian regulations). Safety, tree health, and overall urban forest goals are given higher priority.

Other Important Considerations for Nanaimo Properties

• Development Permit Areas and watercourses: Extra restrictions commonly apply near streams, steep slopes, and environmentally sensitive areas. Provincial Riparian Areas Regulation may also apply.
• Nesting season: Even when a City permit is not required, the provincial Wildlife Act and Migratory Birds Convention Act protect active nests. Avoid work during peak nesting periods or obtain necessary approvals.
• Properties outside City limits: Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) rules differ. Many rural or electoral-area properties are regulated through Development Permit Areas rather than a blanket tree bylaw.
• City trees and boulevards: These are protected; never prune or remove them without City authorization.

How Tree Service Nanaimo Can Help

Navigating the bylaw is easier with local experience. Our certified arborists can:

• Accurately measure and identify trees
• Assess whether a tree is significant, hazardous, or exempt
• Prepare the documentation needed for permit applications or hazard approvals
• Recommend the least-impact solutions (pruning, cabling, or selective reduction) when full removal is not the best option
• Perform the work safely and in compliance once approvals are in place
• Advise on suitable native replacement trees that support Nanaimo’s canopy goals

​We have served Nanaimo and surrounding communities for decades and understand both the practical realities of Island trees and the City’s requirements.

​Ready for a free on-site assessment? Contact us at (250) 800-3824 or through our online form. We will help you understand your options clearly and keep your property safe and compliant.

Official Resources For The Above Information

• City of Nanaimo Urban Forestry page (includes links to all tree-related documents)
• Tree Removal Permit Application form (PDF)
• Tree Bylaw Highlights Brochure (PDF)
• Management and Protection of Trees Bylaw 2013 No. 7126 (full consolidated bylaw)
• Contact: Urban Forestry Coordinator (current details available on the City of Nanaimo Urban Forestry page)

​Disclaimer: This page provides general information based on publicly available City of Nanaimo materials as of the latest research. Bylaws, fees, forms, and processes can change. It is not legal advice. Always confirm current requirements directly with the City of Nanaimo and, where needed, obtain professional advice from our certified arborists before undertaking tree work.