When it comes to trees, homeowners in the City of North Vancouver can still wield the axe when they see fit.
That was the outcome of a June 26 meeting when a majority of council voted against forcing homeowners to apply for a permit to fell any tree that wasn’t sick or a threat to personal safety.
The most important aspect of trees is that they always grow back, according to Coun. Craig Keating, who said he’s resisted the temptation to topple city trees.
“I look longingly at my chainsaw every once in a while because they cast so much stinkin’ shade into my lot.”
While stipulating Keating “and his chainsaw” weren’t in a conflict of interest, Bell stated the status quo didn’t offer enough protection for trees on private property, which are both an environmental and esthetic boon.
Citing the rights of property owners and the $100,000-$150,000 cost of imposing a tree bylaw, council voted 6-1 against enacting stricter measures.
But while the city is staying out of backyards, staff may be spending more time on public boulevards as council is set to consider spending $75,000 to kick-start a tree-planting program in their 2018 budget.
The city only requires permits to cut trees that are near waterways or protected by covenants.
