There are several types of tree inspection services provided by the City of Surrey – Trees and Landscape Section.   These inspections include:

• Tree Barrier Inspections - Prior to receiving a building permit all trees to be preserved must have barriers constructed around them and these tree barriers need to be inspected and approved by the City. 
• Replacement Tree Inspections - After trees are removed they must be replaced.  This requires two inspections:  the first to check that the replacement tree has been installed, and the second, one year later, to check that the tree is still alive and healthy.
• Infraction Inspections - If a tree has been removed illegally, inspectors will arrive on site to collect evidence of the infraction.  Sometimes bylaw officers or RCMP officers will accompany an arborist during the inspection.
• Landscape Inspections - For all multi-family, industrial and commercial developments there is a landscape component.  A development project may require many inspections:
  • Pre-construction meeting
  • For soil installation
  • Planting
  • Irrigation
  • Substantial completion
  • Others
• Tree Cutting Permit Application Inspections - After a tree removal application is received, an arborist inspector from the City will check out the trees to see if they need to be removed, or whether the City requires further information before making a decision.
• Demolition Inspections - If a building is being demolished and there are existing trees growing near the building or near the route that demolition equipment will use to reach the building, then a City arborist inspector will visit the site to determine if barriers are required.
• Field Review Inspections - Before a building permit is issued an inspection is done to confirm the tree numbers and location and how they will affect the new building being constructed.

For all types of inspections, please allow up to three business days (and in some cases longer) for the inspection to be completed.  To request a tree or landscape inspection complete the online Tree Inspection Request.  If you have immediate concerns, please call our Tree and Landscaping Information Line at 604-591-4675.