Township of Langley Taking More Action to Protect Trees

The Township of Langley has increased its education and enforcement against illegal tree cutting to protect more trees and the overall tree canopy in the Township. Protecting trees is an important part of protecting the environment and maintaining a balance between community growth and green spaces.

However, there has been a significant increase in illegal tree cutting in the Township, without the necessary permit or written authorization, contrary to the Township’s Tree Protection Bylaw 2019 No. 5478, resulting in increased enforcement.

Some property owners have removed protected trees, in some cases dozens of trees, without the necessary permits, resulting in significant penalties being imposed on those property owners, as provided for in the bylaw. The penalties include fines up to $10,500 for each tree cut, as well as payment of all related damages caused by the unlawful cutting.

The Township continues an awareness and education approach, and to protect more trees enforcement action is increasing which may result in more fines if people continue to illegally cut trees without following the bylaw and processes in place. The increased enforcement and fines resulted in several delegations to Council by property owners requesting a waiver or reduction in their fees and fines. Council listened to their explanations but rejected their requests and supported the continuation of full and prompt collection of all monies owed – which in some cases exceeds $100,000.

“This Council aims to protect trees and green spaces as our community grows, and to do that we must act on illegal tree cutting by supporting bylaw enforcement processes and outcomes,” stated Mayor Eric Woodward.

Most tree removal permits can be issued within 4 days, subject to complete applications being provided in accordance with the bylaw. Those who do not follow the process may face serious fines and other related consequences. Those who fail to pay the fines may face further action by the Township including adding fines to property taxes, legal action, and other property-related restrictions.

For those who may want or need to remove a tree, they are urged to first visit the Township’s website at tol.ca/treeprotection to review the detailed information provided, then contact the Township to obtain the necessary permits/written authorizations BEFORE cutting any trees down.

Call before you cut.