Infill developers balk at planned tree rules

Edmonton's infill community is fighting back against proposed permit costs as part of the city's plan to protect trees on public land during construction projects.

A revised tree protection bylaw, to be presented to council's urban planning committee Tuesday, recommends the need for a preservation or protection plan for all construction projects within five metres of a boulevard or open space tree and 10 metres within a natural stand.

This could come with an associated cost of up to $300 per permit in order for the city to recoup its investment in the program. If offered for free, the city would need to cover the projected annual operating costs of $621,300 and find funding through the tax levy.

Infill Development in Edmonton Association (IDEA) spokesman Mick Graham said the increased costs and red tape around applications are more unnecessary burdens being dumped on the industry. Graham said he welcomes a bylaw to protect trees but not one where the companies would need to foot the bill for a permit, calling on council to reconsider.

“I see trees as valuable and I want to preserve them, but it's like being nibbled to death by ducks. Every time I turn around there's another fee, another obligation, another cost and council doesn't see it,” he said in an interview with Postmedia Friday. “This is just more pain getting heaped on the infill builders.”

Groups could face a fine of $1,000 if a permit isn't obtained, which is double the fine previously recommended by the city when the plan was first brought forward in May. City officials said the new fine is more in line with other Canadian cities and equitable compensation for the value of the tree could also be required for any damage.

An expansion of permitting options is another change in the revised bylaw following concerns from the community when the rule was first presented. Companies such as Epcor, Atco and Shaw all fought for an easier way to apply for a permit that covers several work sites to minimize costs and timelines. Back in May, Epcor estimated it would require 8,000 permits a year under the proposed procedure, costing thousands of dollars.

In response, the city is offering a blanket permit for utility and telecom companies for all emergency work, vegetation clearance and above-ground infrastructure maintenance. But stand-alone permits will still be required for any ground excavation work within three metres of a boulevard or open space and five metres of a natural stand.

Edmonton River Valley Conservation Coalition chairwoman Kristine Kowalchuk said the blanket permit process could work, but hopes at least 10 per cent of these work sites are inspected thoroughly to ensure compliance.

“City trees are a major public asset and key to mitigating the climate crisis so it makes sense that everyone would have to comply with a bylaw meant to protect them,” she said in a statement to Postmedia. “We are happy that the fine amount for damaging trees has increased. Considering the value to our city, the fine could be even higher.”

If the bylaw is approved by council, city staff will return during the fall budget discussion with necessary funding requirements.