City Seeking Feedback on Proposed Private Tree By-law and Woodland By-law Updates
- 5 hours ago
- 2 min read
The City of Hamilton is asking residents for feedback on a proposed Harmonized Private Tree By-law, along with updates to the City’s existing Woodland By-laws and Tree Protection Guidelines.
These proposed changes are part of the City’s Urban Forest Strategy, which was approved by Council in 2023. One of the strategy’s goals is to increase Hamilton’s urban tree canopy to 40% by 2050.
Why is this being considered?
Trees play an important role in Hamilton’s environment and neighbourhoods. They help reduce heat, improve air quality, support wildlife habitat, and make communities more resilient to climate change.
About 58% of Hamilton’s trees (approximately 5.2 million trees) are located on private property. Between 2021 and 2024, the City recorded continued tree canopy loss within the urban boundary, particularly on privately owned land.
The proposed by-law and updates are intended to support the protection and replacement of trees on private property.
What trees would be protected?
The proposed by-law would apply to trees that are:
• 45 cm in diameter or larger• measured 1.4 metres above the ground (known in arboriculture as diameter at breast height)
What could this mean for homeowners?
If the proposed by-law is approved:
• Removing a protected tree may require a permit
• Residents may need to plant replacement trees when a protected tree is removed
• Exemptions would apply in certain situations (for example, where trees are dead, hazardous, or must be removed for valid reasons)
The expanded exemption list is intended to ensure that necessary removals can still occur while helping protect healthy trees that contribute to Hamilton’s urban forest.
Woodland By-law and Development Guideline Updates
The City is also proposing updates to existing woodland bylaws and Tree Protection Guidelines, which apply to development projects with 10 units or more.
These updates are intended to strengthen tree protection during development and increase requirements for tree replacement when removals occur.
Public Information Sessions
Residents are invited to attend a public open house to learn more and provide feedback. City project staff will be available to answer questions.
Wednesday, March 25, 2026
6:00–8:00 PM (presentation at 7 PM)
Westmount Recreation Centre
35 Lynbrook Dr
Thursday, March 26, 2026
6:00–8:00 PM (presentation at 7 PM)
Harry Howell Arena
27 Hwy 5 West, Flamborough
Wednesday, April 8, 2026
6:00–8:00 PM (presentation at 7 PM)
Bernie Morelli Recreation Centre
876 Cannon St E
Thursday, April 16, 2026
6:00–8:00 PM (presentation at 7 PM)
Valley Park Community Centre
970 Paramount Dr
Learn More or Share Feedback
Residents can review the draft by-law, supporting documents, and complete the public survey at:
Public feedback will help inform the next steps before any by-law changes are considered by Council.
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