Forest Conservation (Tree) By-Law
The goal of Northumberland County's Forest Conservation By-Law (By-Law 2015-27) is to promote good forestry practices and the maintenance of woodlands.
Maintaining forest cover benefits the community by providing many ecosystem services such as:
- Water retention and filtration
- Air filtration
- Beneficial insects and wildlife
- Climate regulation
The Forest Conservation By-Law helps ensure that forest resources are maintained throughout the community over the long-term.
Do I need a permit?
Permits are required for the destruction of trees within woodland greater than one hectare for non-personal use or unless another exemption to the by-law is met.
Permits may be granted for:
- The use of good forestry practices whereby a harvest plan (prescription) is prepared by a registered professional forester
- Harvesting where trees are greater than a threshold circumference limit and a minimum amount of forest cover is maintained
- Relief from the by-Law, permitting the owner to destroy trees for a reason other than what is allowed through an exemption
Types of permits
Submit a permit
Before submitting a permit, or for more information, please contact us.
To request a digital copy of By-Law 2015-27 Schedule A - Harvest Permit, please submit a request using our Document Request form.
Violations
Violations of the Forest Conservation By-Law may result in fines of up to $100,000 for a single offence and an order to replant any trees that have been illegally removed.
Resources
Are you thinking about harvesting your woodlot? Here are some resources to consult: