Street trees do more than beautify our City and create community pride. Street trees have been scientifically proven to:

• save energy by reduce heating or cooling costs for buildings they cover
• calm traffic
• clean air
• filter dust
• absorb sound
• cool area under tree and absorb humidity
• provide habitats for birds, mammals and insects

Parks staff select street trees based on established research to ensure the trees are viable without damaging public or private property and are resilient to disease and pests. Street trees generally have the  following characteristics:

• Small to medium size (20 – 35 feet at maturity)
• Raised crown to provide maximum clearance between the sidewalk and lower branches
• Non-aggressive root systems
• Growth habits that are compatible with streetscapes (i.e. trees with upright growth habits are used in narrow spaces)
• Ornamental characteristics (i.e. bark, fall colour, flowers, etc.) that enhance the neighbourhood

Street Tree Care

Please help Parks staff by watering street trees in front of your home during dry periods to keep them healthy and disease resistant. About 10 gallons every other day will keep your street trees and neighbourhood looking beautiful.

You are also encouraged to maintain a circle around the base of the tree with wood chips, grass clippings or compost to help keep the soil moist and reduce damage by mowers or weed whackers.

Please let Parks staff know if your street tree needs attention by calling 604.527.4567 (i.e. pests, broken branches, etc.). Also please do not prune trees yourself or remove stakes or ties.

Street Tree Bylaw - 5685, 1987

Tree Cutting Bylaw - 5745, 1988