When planting requests are made, an Urban Forester must assess the feasibility of the overall project and site.
The Program Coordinator will work closely with the applicant and consider the following guidelines when reviewing the proposed application:
- Boulevard tree planting requests will not be considered for the program.
- The suitability of tree species to proposed planting location(s), including future size, spacing, water requirements, and soil requirements.
- Ensure the tree species requested are not considered invasive or short-lived.
- Proposed plantings that are an extension of private property will not be considered due to potential encroachment issues.
- Plantings that block sightlines of traffic signs and intersections will not be approved.
- Proposed plantings that are immediately adjacent to property lines will not be authorized.
- Plantings must be congruent with the existing design and plant selection of the area and must be designed to contribute to the enhancement of the public space.
- Boulevard tree planting requests will not be considered for the program.
- Access for City equipment will be assessed for future maintenance practices such as mowing, watering and pruning.
- New tree installations must occur on City owned land. Community Forestry is unable to plant a new tree within community league envelopes or on school board property.
- Approved trees will be planted in accordance with the City’s Landscape Design and Construction Standards.
- The City will complete a tree inspection to ensure plant material meets minimum size requirements. The inspection process will also evaluate tree health, structure, and form. Deciduous trees must be a minimum of 6 centimetre caliper. Coniferous trees must be over 2.0 metres in height.
Once the planting proposal is reviewed, the Urban Forester will circulate the plan to stakeholders to ensure there are no future plans for developments at the proposed site. This process could take up to 6 weeks.
