Protecting Trees on Construction Sites in Edmonton: Tree Protection Plans & Best Practices

Municipal Tree ManagementTree Consulting & PreservationCommercial Tree Services

Sep 3

Jordon measureing a tree for a Tree Protection Plan

Table of Contents

Why Tree Protection Matters During Construction

Construction projects often pose serious risks to mature trees. Root zones are compacted by heavy machinery, trunks get bumped by equipment, and even small grading changes can disrupt a tree’s health for years.

Preserving existing trees isn’t just an environmental best practice — in Edmonton, it’s often a legal requirement. With proper planning, you can protect trees, comply with city bylaws, and avoid costly penalties.

This guide walks commercial developers, builders, and municipal planners through the essentials of Edmonton Tree Protection Plans.

What Is a Tree Protection Plan (TPP)?

A Tree Protection Plan (TPP) is a formal document that outlines how trees will be preserved on or near a construction site. It includes:

The location of existing trees and their critical root zones
Protective measures such as fencing, signage, and root zone treatments
Tree health assessments before, during, and after the build
Monitoring requirements and maintenance schedules

In Edmonton, a TPP is required when work takes place within 5 metres of a city-owned tree.

Edmonton Tree Protection Bylaws: What You Need to Know

According to Edmonton’s Public Tree Bylaw:

No work can be done within 5 metres of a city tree without a permit
Damage to a city tree can result in fines and restoration fees
A certified arborist must submit the plan if any below-ground work will take place
Fencing must be installed at the drip line or critical root zone

For developers, this means tree preservation is not optional — it’s built into your permit approval process.

Best Practices for Protecting Trees on Site

Install Fencing at the Root Zone

Tree protection fencing must be placed in accordance with city bylaw, or preferably to the drip line of the tree. Avoid flexible or temporary barriers — sturdy, fixed fencing is required.

Avoid Compaction and Root Damage

No vehicles, storage, or excavation inside the protection zone
Use mulch or wood chips to reduce compaction if light access is needed
Hand-dig if work is required near roots

Prune Roots and Canopies Carefully

If root pruning is required (e.g., for trenching or grading), it must be done cleanly and professionally. Avoid tearing or ripping roots. Canopy pruning for clearance should be minimal and supervised.

When Is a Tree Preservation Plan Needed Instead?

While often used interchangeably, Edmonton differentiates between the two:

A Tree Protection Plan is typically required when work is occurring near trees but does not involve excavation or grade changes.
A Tree Preservation Plan is required for projects involving excavation, trenching, or grading that could impact trees or their root zones.

City Tree Service offers consulting for both types of plans and can help clarify which one your project requires.

The Cost of Non-Compliance

Ignoring tree protection requirements can lead to:

Permit delays
Fines from the City of Edmonton
Required payment for tree replacement and lost ecological value
Damage to community relationships and reputation

Proper planning protects more than just trees — it safeguards your project timeline and public image.

Work With a Certified Consulting Arborist

City Tree Service works with developers, landscape architects, and city planners to draft, implement, and monitor Tree Protection and Preservation Plans. Our ISA-certified arborists:

Conduct site assessments
Liaise with city inspectors
Create detailed documentation for permit approval
Provide on-site support during construction

We ensure compliance and help you build responsibly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Damaging a public tree can lead to significant fines and replacement costs. The city may charge for lost ecological value and may require restitution planting.
In most cases, anyone can prepare a Tree Protection Plan as long as it meets the City's requirements. However, a Tree Preservation Plan requires input from a certified arborist due to the involvement of excavation or grading work.
You can build on your property while respecting the required tree protection buffer zones. However, if any work will occur within 5 metres of a city-owned tree—including excavation, trenching, or material storage—then a Tree Protection Plan and permit are required by the City of Edmonton.
No. Fencing alone doesn’t meet legal requirements. You must file an approved plan and follow the city’s standards or risk fines and work delays.
You do not need a city permit, but damage to neighbouring trees or trees near property lines may still lead to liability. A Tree Preservation Plan is still recommended for protection and planning.