Are you in the District or the City? The District of North Vancouver (DNV) and the City of North Vancouver (CNV) are separate municipalities with different tree bylaws. If your property is in the City, see our CNV Permit Guide instead.
District of North Vancouver — Tree Protection Bylaw 7671

When Do You Need a Tree Permit in the DNV?

A tree removal or pruning permit is required for any tree on private property in the District of North Vancouver that meets one or more of the following conditions:

Tree Size

The trunk is 75cm (30") or larger in diameter, measured 1.3m (4.3 ft) above ground level. This is the most common trigger for residential permit requirements.

Stream Proximity

The tree is within 15 metres of a stream bank top on standard properties, or within 30 metres on properties larger than 0.5 hectares.

Steep Slopes

The tree is located on terrain with a slope steeper than 30%. Steep slopes are common throughout North Vancouver and often go unnoticed by homeowners.

Ravine Areas

The tree is within 10 metres of a ravine bank where the ravine exceeds 60 metres in width.

Special Designations

The tree has been designated as a heritage tree, wildlife tree, or replacement tree — regardless of size or location.

DNV-Owned Land

The tree is on District-owned property including parks, boulevards, roads, or lane allowances. Contact DNV directly at 604-990-2311 for these trees.

Protected Species — Always Require a DNV Permit

The following species are protected under DNV Bylaw 7671 regardless of their size or location. A permit is required to remove or significantly prune any of these trees:

🌲 Arbutus
🌳 Garry Oak
🍃 Oregon Ash
🌿 Pacific Yew
🌲 Western White Pine
🌿 Yellow-cedar

If you're unsure what species your tree is, a certified arborist can identify it during an assessment.

How to Apply for a DNV Tree Permit

  • Hire a certified arborist to assess the tree and prepare a formal arborist report. This document is required for most permit applications.
  • Submit your application to the District of North Vancouver along with the arborist report and a site plan showing the tree's location on your property.
  • Pay the $300 application fee at the time of submission.
  • DNV inspection — a District arborist will review the application and may inspect the tree in person.
  • Permit issued upon approval. You must have the permit in hand before any work begins.
    • Important: You must apply for and receive your permit before any tree work begins. Retroactive permits are not issued. Always confirm permit status with your arborist before scheduling work.

    What Happens If You Don't Get a DNV Permit?

    Removing a protected tree without a permit is a violation of DNV Bylaw 7671. Before proceeding, read our tree removal guide to understand when removal is truly necessary. Violations can result in:

    • Significant fines per tree removed without authorization
    • A requirement to replant replacement trees at your own expense
    • Stop-work orders on any active construction or landscaping project
    • Potential civil liability to neighbours if the tree had shared value or protected status
    Official Resource: For the most up-to-date permit information, visit the DNV Tree Permit page or call 604-990-2311.

    Looking for City of North Vancouver permit rules instead?

    View CNV Permit Guide →