Application for Tree Cutting Permit1

*If you have just filled out the Tree Permit Application form below, please scroll down to the form to ensure it has been submitted without error. If you're having issues, please contact parks@saanich.ca.

Background Information

You need a Tree Cutting Permit to alter, cut, or remove Protected trees in Saanich.  Here is some information and the application form is below.

Please note: Saanich staff only perform a visual inspection on private property trees in order to process tree permit application. Retain the services of an arborist for a detailed assessment of your tree.

If you are applying for a tree permit as part of a development permit (Building Permit, DP, Site Servicing etc.), Saanich Parks will be informed when your permit is processed and ready for review. Do not submit a separate request as it will not be processed.

The property owner, or the property owner's authorized agent, can submit an application.

You cannot prune a tree growing on municipally owned land, including trees on boulevards or in parks. Contact us for any tree work on public property.

Please attach any supporting documents to the end of the application. Use this link to SaanichMap to view an overhead image of your property and plot tree locations where possible, especially for a large acreage.

PruningGarry Oak leaf - a protected tree in Saanich

You generally do not need a permit to perform basic pruning on a protected tree when done in accordance with sound arboriculture practices. We recommend you consult with an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist.

You require a Tree Cutting Permit when pruning a:

  • Significant Tree;
  • Tree protected via a Covenant;
  • Tree's root system; or to
  • Perform pruning that meets the definition of “altering” a protected tree (as defined in the Bylaw).

Applications relating to infrastructure damage (19b) require documentation to support the request. Please attach below, or send follow up documents to parks@saanich.ca.

You can also print out and complete the Tree Cutting Permit application and return to the Saanich Parks office (1040 McKenzie Ave) at your convenience.

Fillable Tree Permit Application

Property Owner Information

*Applications may only be submitted by the legal property owner or an authorized agent. Applications made by others will not be processed. Request an Agent Authorization Form from parks@saanich.ca. *Strata properties will be required to submit applications from an authorized strata council decision maker (ie. President).

Tree Information 

Requested tree #1

Tree #1 Work Requested (see definition of "alter")For tree #1
For tree #1
Tree Location:For tree #1
Reason for tree removal request / or working in the protected root zoneFor tree #1

Requested tree #2

Tree #2 Work Requested (see definition of "alter") (optional)For tree #2
For tree #2
Tree Location: (optional)For tree #2
Reason for tree removal request / or working in the protected root zone (optional)For tree #2

Requested tree #3

Tree #3 Work Requested (see definition of "alter") (optional)For tree #3
For tree #3
Tree Location: (optional)For tree #3
Reason for tree removal request / or working in the protected root zone (optional)For tree #3

Additional Property Details

Is the tree(s) located in a covenant?:
Acreage: This property is an Acreage
Acreage: A map/sketch has been included to show where trees are located on the acreage. See top of page for a link to SaanichMap.
Are there any special circumstances that would prevent or limit access to the tree(s)?select all that apply
Photos, maps, Arborist Report etc. Attach here.
Photos, maps, Arborist Report etc. Attach here.
Photos, maps, Arborist Report etc. Attach here.

Saanich Parks staff visit properties to review your request during business hours (Monday to Friday 8:00am – 4:00pm, excluding Statutory holidays). Please mark the tree(s) so it is clear which tree(s) is to be inspected (eg. with a brightly coloured ribbon). 

(Please complete the CAPTCHA in order to submit this form)

 Surety deposits for replacement trees may be required. If your tree cutting permit is approved and a surety deposit applied, you will need to come to the Saanich Parks office to pay the deposit and pick up your permit prior to work proceeding. Your permit is not approved until surety deposits are paid and the permit is signed by the applicant. For most permits, you will receive this deposit back once you plant a replacement tree that meets all the requirements: 50% of the deposit is returned once a tree that meets the requirement is planted; and, the remaining 50% will be returned once the tree is shown to be in good health at least one year after first inspection. Please contact Saanich Parks for more information, or to arrange an inspection to receive your tree surety refund.

This collection of personal information is authorized under the Local Government Act, Community Charter and Section 26(c) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. The information will be used for processing this permit application. Questions can be directed to the District’s Privacy Officer at: 770 Vernon Avenue, Victoria BC, V8X 2W7, t. 250‑475-1775, e. foi@saanich.ca