SASKATOON — Trees on city property – such as boulevards, medians, parks and natural areas – are valuable assets and an integral part of Saskatoon’s urban forest. The City’s Tree Protection Bylaw is there to protect trees located on city property.
Residents and contractors are reminded that a tree permit is required for any construction, major landscaping or demolition work within six metres of a city tree. This includes placing heavy equipment or materials near a tree, unless they are on a paved surface like a driveway, street or path. Tree permits are free and typically processed within four business days.
The bylaw also prohibits several activities without prior approval from the city. These include but are not limited to:
- Pruning, removing or relocating a city tree
- Applying pesticides or harmful chemicals
- Interfering with a tree’s access to water, air or nutrients
- Removing protective barriers
- Carving into the bark or attaching items to the tree
A permit is not required in the following situations:
- Placing lights or extension cords on a city tree during the winter months (October to March), provided they do not pose a hazard or harm the tree
- Minor landscaping such as hand digging or mowing
- Trees in back lanes
Not sure if there are city trees on your worksite? Use the Tree Inventory tool available on the Tree Permits webpage at saskatoon.ca/treepermits.
For more information or to submit a permit application, visit saskatoon.ca/treepermits.
