Do I need a permit to cut down a tree?

Trees & tree removal — Kelowna, British Columbia: Tree Protection Bylaw No. 8041 (revised Oct 3, 2022)

In the City of Kelowna, British Columbia, trees & tree removal rules are set by Tree Protection Bylaw No. 8041 (revised Oct 3, 2022), verified 2026-10-15. Fines: not exceeding Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000.00) and the costs of prosecution. A permit is required. Protected threshold: Any tree within the lands to which this bylaw applies with a diameter of 100 mm or more measured 1 m above grade (100 mm DBH).

Tree Protection Bylaw No. 8041 (revised Oct 3, 2022) adopted bylaw

permit required	yes	s. 4.2
protected threshold	Any tree within the lands to which this bylaw applies with a diameter of 100 mm or more measured 1 m above grade (100 mm DBH).	s. 3.1
replacement required	Any tree cut down, removed or altered must be replaced within one growing season; replacement formula by DBH: 0–151 mm = 2 trees, 152–304 mm = 3, 305–456 mm = 4, 457–609 mm = 6, 610 mm+ = 8. At least one replacement must be same type; min size 2.0 m conifers, 60 mm DBH deciduous. Compensation paid to City for violations.	s. 10.1; s. 10.2; s. 10.3
fine range	not exceeding Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000.00) and the costs of prosecution	s. 13.1

scout note

Tree cutting permit required in defined Tree Cutting Permit Areas (steep slopes, near water, covenanted areas); replacement trees required; hazardous trees need arborist support.