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
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.
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.
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.
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.
