Image of a single family home with landscaping

Depending on its zoning, low-density, single-family or small-scale residential landscaping has specific landscaping requirements.

Applying for a Development Permit

Most zones require that you submit a site plan listing the following:

  • Existing trees (if applicable)
  • Number, size and type of new and preserved trees
  • Seed/sod or alternative ground cover

Be sure to look at the specific requirements of your zone to determine whether you need to show landscaping on a site plan or a landscaping plan when applying for a development permit. Some zones require a landscape plan prepared by a professional landscape architect.

Finding Your Zone

When reviewing the regulations in the Zoning Bylaw, you need to consider:

  • Section 55 - Landscape Requirements
  • Zone applied to your property
  • Overlays, special areas and applicable plans

Visit maps.edmonton.ca to find your property’s zone. Select Zoning and search for your property address.

Residential Landscaping Requirements

Residential developments in RF1, RSL, RF2, RF3, RF5, RF6, RA7, RA8, RA9, RR, RMH, RF5t, TSDR, TSLR, TMU, GLD, RF5g, RA7g, GLG, UVCa, BLMR, BMR zones are required to plant trees and shrubs according to the relevant sections of the Zoning Bylaw.

Landscaping Requirements Chart

Residential developments in RPL, RPLt, RF4, RF4t, RMD, UCRH, CCLD, CCSF, HVLD and GHLD are required to plant trees and shrubs according to relevant sections of Zoning Bylaw.

Tree Zone Chart

Incentives to Retain Mature Trees

In 2016, the City introduced an incentive program promoting the retention of existing mature trees during construction. Any new development can receive credits towards their tree requirements for preserving mature trees.

Incentives to Retain Mature Trees

Minimum size of trees and shrubs required to receive credit for 1 or 2 new trees.