Tree protection

It is important to protect the critical root zones of trees during construction to prevent potential tree loss and to help preserve wooded communities.

The city requires tree protection fencing to be installed and inspected on most sites before issuing a building or grading permit involving excavation in order to help minimize impacts within the critical root zone of a tree. Soil compaction caused by stockpiling, material storage, equipment access, or other activities can limit the ability of the tree’s root system to absorb oxygen, water and nutrients. Removal or damage to the root system through excavation, trenching or other means can also have impacts on the tree’s survival. These impacts may result in the decline and eventual loss of the tree. Tree protection fencing is required to be maintained until the grading and construction activity on the project is complete.