City of Edmonton Requirements

This guide outlines the City of Edmonton's requirements for tree planting and maintenance in public spaces.

Tree Planting Requirements

Size Requirements

• Coniferous Trees

  • Minimum height: 2.5 meters
  • Well-formed crown
  • Healthy root system

• Deciduous Trees

  • Minimum diameter: 5 cm at breast height (DBH)
  • Strong branch structure
  • Balanced crown

Health Standards

Trees must demonstrate:

• Good form and structure
• Vigorous growth patterns
• Freedom from pests and disease
• Strong root development

Location Requirements

Setbacks

• Distance from utilities
• Proximity to structures
• Traffic sight lines
• Underground services

Site Selection

• Soil conditions
• Sun exposure
• Space for growth
• Access for maintenance

Approval Process

Initial Assessment

1. Site evaluation
2. Species selection review
3. Growth space assessment
4. Utility clearance check

Formal Inspection

1. Urban Forester review
2. Health assessment
3. Location approval
4. Documentation review

Documentation Requirements

Required Forms

• Planting permit application
• Site plan
• Species documentation
• Maintenance plan

Supporting Documents

• Growth history
• Care records
• Site photographs
• Risk assessment

Maintenance Standards

Regular Maintenance

• Pruning requirements
• Watering schedule
• Mulching standards
• Health monitoring

Long-term Care

• Growth management
• Structure maintenance
• Root care
• Site maintenance

Public Safety

Risk Management

• Regular assessments
• Documentation
• Mitigation plans
• Emergency procedures

Access Considerations

• Public pathways
• Visibility requirements
• Emergency access
• Maintenance access

Licensing and Permits

Required Licenses

• Land use license
• Planting permit
• Maintenance agreement
• Special use permits

Application Process

1. Submit application
2. Site inspection
3. Review period
4. Approval/modifications

Additional Resources

City Contacts

• Urban Forestry team
• Planning department
• Parks operations
• Utility services

Reference Documents

• Landscaping Requirements
• Tree Planting Request
• City bylaws
• Design standards

TIP

Early consultation with City officials can help ensure your project meets all requirements.

Compliance

Monitoring

• Regular inspections
• Progress reports
• Maintenance records
• Compliance updates

Remediation

• Issue identification
• Correction plans
• Implementation
• Follow-up

WARNING

Failure to meet City requirements may result in removal requirements or penalties.