NOTL tree preservation policy expected to take root

There was no opposition from builders or developers to a proposed policy by the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake to protect trees on municipal property during construction and redevelopment phases.

The deadline of Jan. 12 passed with no comments from the building sector against the proposed municipal tree protection and preservation policy drafted by town staff last November.

Council had directed staff to write a policy in response to several complaints from residents last year about construction activity close to boulevard trees and the storage of soil, materials and equipment under the canopy of trees.

The town had passed a bylaw in 2012 that prohibits the injury or destruction of trees on municipal property that includes fines ranging from $500 to $100,000. The new policy is designed to assist the town with implementing the bylaw and give clear direction to landowners and developers.

“The policies are extensive in their requirements and will present a significant change to the process of securing approval for development that occurs in close proximity to municipal trees,” staff reported to the town’s community and development advisory committee Monday.

The committee unanimously approved the new policy with no discussion except for a “thank you” from Coun. Betty Disero. She had expressed frustration last November that the process was not moving forward quickly enough.

If the policy is implemented, there could be costs for developers for protecting and securing trees. Fencing may be required around trees and an arbourist’s report ordered. The town would also incur costs for issuing permits, increased enforcement and in some cases, consultation fees for an arbourist.

A staff report on the fees for permits and inspections under the new policy is scheduled to come to committee-of-the-whole in March. An education and awareness strategy would also be prepared by staff to promote the new policy.

Council has received a lot of feedback from residents through delegations and petitions since last June on the issue. Some speakers called for the regulations to extend to private properties while others suggested that tree protection policies be included in the town’s official plan rather than a new bylaw.

Council will make a final decision on approving the new policy next week.