Removing Trees for Agriculture

You must have a tree cutting permit to remove trees on agricultural property. Tree removal for agriculture has different requirements than residential tree cutting permits.

Definition

Agricultural use means the growing of crops or the raising of livestock.

Zoning Bylaw 12000 must allow agricultural use on the property.

How to apply for your permit

For land within the agricultural land reserve (ALR)

Please submit the following:

1. A completed tree cutting permit application form. 
2. An arborist report describing:
   a) the type of forest
   b) the number of protected trees within the area to be cleared
   c) the impact the clearing will have on adjacent lands
3. A sworn affidavit by the owner declaring:
   a) The tree removal is for agricultural purposes and that agriculture cannot occur unless the site is cleared.
   b) That there will be no application for subdivision, rezoning or development of the lot for a period of five years.

The standard replacement trees and all other applicable requirements of this Bylaw, as determined by the General Manager, will be required if a development application is made within the five-year period.

For land outside the agricultural land reserve (ALR)

Please submit the following:

1. A completed tree cutting permit application form. 
2. An arborist report describing:
   a) the type of forest
   b) the number of protected trees within the area to be cleared
   c) impact the clearing will have on adjacent lands.
3. A sworn affidavit by the owner declaring:
   a) That the tree removal is for agricultural purposes and the agriculture cannot occur unless the site is cleared.
   b) That the owner enters into a restrictive covenant, registered on the title of the lot, documenting that the owner has agreed not to make an application for subdivision, rezoning or development of the lot for a period of 10 years.

The standard replacement trees and all other applicable requirements of this Bylaw, as determined by the General Manager, will be required if a development application is made within the ten-year period.

Find out if your land is on ALR land through COSMOS or by using the Agricultural Land Commission's website.

Watercourses and Environmentally Sensitive Areas

Watercourses and environmentally sensitive areas may need additional approvals from other municipal or provincial departments.

Additional Documentation

The General Manager may require additional documentation for your application. If this is the case, you will be notified after you have submitted your application form, arborist report and sworn affidavit. 

Fees and Securities

Contact

If you have questions or require further information please refer first to the bylaw or to the bylaw-related bulletins.

For additional clarification of these materials please email TreeBylaw@surrey.ca or call 604-591-4675.

For tree removals for non-agricultural purposes, such as construction, dead trees or trees affecting a residence or out-buildings, please follow the regular tree removal process.

Key Information

• Tree Protection Bylaw, No. 16100
• Sustainability Charter
• Zoning Bylaw 12000