🆕 Proposed Branching Out of Policy

To help protect large, mature trees that provide public benefits and grow the urban forest, the City is proposing a Harmonized Private Tree By-law and updates to the existing Tree Protection Guidelines and Woodland Bylaws (Regional and Urban).

What this could mean for property owners:

• Some tree removals may require a permit
• Replacement trees may be required in some cases
• Exemptions would apply for dead or hazardous trees, invasive species, emergency work, and trees too close to buildings

Residents are invited to learn more and have their say by attending an in-person event and completing an on-line survey here:

https://engage.hamilton.ca/harmonizedprivatetreebylaw

The results of this consultation will inform the fees, processes, and requirements recommended in final by-laws and guidelines that will be before council in the summer of 2026.

Public Consultation Dates

Date: Wednesday, March 25, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with a formal presentation at 7:00 PM
Location: Westmount Recreation Centre, Community Room 3, 35 Lynbrook Drive, Hamilton, Ontario, L9C 2K6

Date: Thursday, March 26, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with a formal presentation at 7:00 PM
Location: Harry Howell Twin Pad Arena, Community Room, 27 Highway 5 West, Hamilton, Ontario, L0R 2B0

Date: Wednesday, April 8, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with a formal presentation at 7:00 PM
Location: Bernie Morelli Recreation Centre, Entire Café, 876 Cannon Street East, Hamilton, Ontario, L8L 0C6

Date: Thursday, April 16, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with a formal presentation at 7:00 PM
Location: Valley Park Community Centre, Community Room 1, 970 Paramount Drive, Stoney Creek, Ontario, L8J 1Y2

City staff will be available to answer questions and receive feedback. The content at each public consultation date will be the same.