In 2019, a Tree Protection Bylaw came into effect in
Charlottetown. This bylaw applies to all trees on City property, such as roads,
right-of-ways, parks and natural areas. The bylaw applies when work is planned within
approximately one metre of the edge of a City tree’s canopy (tree protection
zone). In most cases, tree protection fencing will be required to ensure tree
damage is minimized. The bylaw also prohibits activities such as tree removals,
pruning, attaching items to trees or other work that could damage a tree. An exemption to the bylaw needs
to be requested from the City if work is desired within the tree protection
zone.
The Tree Protection Bylaw also protects Heritage trees on
private property. A Heritage tree has to be 100cm or more in diameter at breast
height and be one of five protected species (sugar maple, red maple, American
elm, red oak and linden species).
Charlottetown’s urban forest is essential to the health and
quality of life of residents. The city’s tree canopy provides a wide variety of
benefits such as air temperature regulation, pollution absorption, storm water
management and much more. Trees are also essential to the survival of wildlife
and make Charlottetown a livable and sustainable city. Everyone’s help is needed
to protect trees, which make Charlottetown the beautiful city it is.
For full Tree Protection Bylaw details visit: www.charlottetown.ca/bylaws.
For inquiries relating to the Tree Protection Bylaw please call: 902-566-5548
Pictured above: An example of tree protection fencing and a tree showing impacts of nearby path construction.