​New Kincardine bylaw to regulate native trees on private property, effective Sept. 1

The Municipality of Kincardine’s new bylaw to regulate native trees on private property, comes into effect tomorrow (Sept. 1). The goal of the bylaw is the preservation of the municipality’s tree canopy and rich vegetation through the protection of healthy, mature native trees.

That’s the word from the municipality in a press release issued Friday.

The bylaw is like others of its kind found in other municipalities across the province. It requires property owners or developers, who wish to remove one or more native trees, to get a permit before beginning any work. There is no cost to apply for a permit.

The bylaw is related to only the removal or injuring of native trees, and there are exemptions to the need for a permit, such as if a tree is:
 

• Already dead or injured
• Is an immediate hazard to people or property
• Simply being pruned as part of regular maintenance

Native trees are important because they have evolved and grown naturally in a certain area. They are well adapted to the climate and are critical to helping the local ecosystem thrive.

For example, local birds, wildlife, and insects look for, and depend more upon, native tree species than any others. That means, because of these trees, local pollinators, such as bees, can help to produce more flowers and support the growth of healthy food crops.

“The Municipality of Kincardine is a beautiful place to be, and we want to keep it that way,” said mayor Kenneth Craig. “We’ve heard from the community that managing the preservation of our natural canopy is important, so ensuring we have a good process in place helps to reinforce this. That’s what this bylaw is about.

"Council also made a commitment through our integrated strategy to protect and preserve the environment. This is one of the ways we are taking clear action to meet this goal.”

Details about the new bylaw are available on-line at www.kincardine.ca/nativetrees along with information to help property owners determine whether they need a permit. If a permit is required, applicants can use the easy-to-follow on-line application form to start the process.

Property owners with questions may also contact the municipality at 519-396-3468.