Citizens call for a change in private tree by-laws

We, the citizens of Oakville, petition Mayor Burton to urgently strengthen the existing private tree by-laws in order to effectively protect Oakville’s forests and green spaces.

Our suggestions:

1.   That the Town be notified of every tree of any diameter to be removed and for the Town to actively assess the application before giving approval.

2.   That the diameter criteria set for trees to be removed be species specific and take into account age of the tree.

3.   That the diameter should be calculated at the largest diameter area of the tree rather than the historic "breast height".

4.   That the removal of multiple trees be restricted to a pre-specified maximum number based on Town assessment of habitat and impact to the relevant ecosystem. 

5.   That endangered fauna and/or flora on private land be adequately protected and strictly supervised by the Town during any tree removal process.

We request that Mayor Burton acknowledges this petition and arranges a meeting with the citizens of Oakville to discuss this specific issue in a timely manner.

Signed,

The concerned citizens of Oakville, Ontario