Protecting trees on private and town-owned property is the subject of two new by-laws in Saugeen Shores.
A recent aerial study found that tree canopy covered 39.6 per cent of the urban settlement area in Saugeen Shores. The study was done as part of the Urban Tree Canopy Plan in 2024.
The Town of Saugeen Shores has officially adopted two key by-laws aimed at "protecting and enhancing the community’s urban forest," a statement from the town said.
The Urban Tree Conservation By-law will aim to protect and conserve urban tree cover in the region. It will come into effect on April 1, 2026.
The Tree Protection on Town-Owned Property By-law aims to protect and manage trees on town-owned lands, ensuring only the Town or authorized persons may plant, remove, or maintain trees. It also establishes more clearly defined rules regarding trees on town property. This by-law comes into effect on January 1, 2026.
"These by-laws aim to strike a balance between preservation and property rights by focusing on Town property, environmental protection areas, and areas where development is planned," said Mayor Luke Charbonneau. "They are a meaningful step forward in protecting the trees that define our community’s character and contribute to our environmental health, reflecting our dedication to sustainability and a balanced approach to growth."
