Tree Preservation Plans in Markham
The City of Markham requires a Tree Assessment and Preservation Plan (TAPP) for any building permit application where construction activity will occur within the critical root zone of a regulated tree. This includes new homes, additions, garages, pools, decks, driveways and any other structure that will be built close to a tree with a trunk diameter of 20cm or more.
Our ISA certified arborist prepares TAPPs that meet the City of Markham's submission requirements and have been accepted by Urban Forestry staff. We handle the field assessment, tree inventory, condition ratings, construction impact analysis and all required protection specifications in a single comprehensive report.
When a TAPP Is Required in Markham
- New home construction on a lot with regulated trees
- Home addition or second storey addition within the critical root zone
- New garage, carport, shed or accessory structure near regulated trees
- Pool, hot tub or deck installation near regulated trees
- Driveway expansion, repaving or new hardscape near tree root zones
- Lot severance or Site Plan Control application
- Demolition and rebuild projects with regulated trees on the lot
What Is Included in a Markham TAPP
Our Tree Assessment and Preservation Plan for Markham building permit submissions includes a complete tree inventory for all regulated trees on and adjacent to the subject property, with each tree assigned an identification number, species, DBH measurement, estimated canopy spread, health rating and structural condition rating. The critical root zone (CRZ) is calculated for each tree and mapped relative to the proposed construction footprint.
The impact assessment identifies every tree whose CRZ will be encroached upon by the proposed work and assigns an impact severity level. Trees with high impact and poor condition may be recommended for removal as part of the TAPP. Trees with moderate or manageable impact are assigned specific protection and mitigation measures, including tree protection fencing specifications, construction staging requirements and post-construction monitoring protocols.
Where trees are recommended for removal as part of the approved TAPP, replacement planting is prescribed in accordance with the City's requirements, including species, size, quantity and suggested planting locations.
Tree Protection Fencing Installation
Tree protection fencing is a mandatory requirement in every approved TAPP. The fencing must be installed before any construction activity, equipment or material storage begins on the site, and must remain in place and in good condition throughout the construction period.
We install the required tree protection fencing as part of our TAPP service. The standard specification for Markham is a high-visibility orange snow fence supported on steel T-bar posts, erected at the dripline of each protected tree or at the boundary of the specified protection zone, whichever is larger. Signage is attached to the fencing identifying the protected zone and prohibiting entry, storage, parking and grade changes within the fenced area.
Proper installation is not just a paperwork requirement. Compaction of the soil within the critical root zone by heavy equipment, even a single pass with a loaded concrete truck, can cause root damage that does not manifest visibly for two to three years. The fencing prevents this irreversible damage during the construction period when the risk is highest.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does critical root zone mean?
The critical root zone (CRZ) is the area of soil around a tree that contains the majority of the fine feeder roots responsible for water and nutrient uptake. For the purpose of permit submissions in Markham, the CRZ is typically calculated as a radius equal to 15 times the trunk DBH in centimetres, converted to metres. Construction activity within the CRZ, including grading, excavation, trenching, compaction and material storage, poses significant risk to the tree's long-term health and survival.
Can I build close to a regulated tree if I protect it properly?
In many cases, yes. The TAPP process is designed to find ways to retain trees through construction, not to block development. With appropriate foundation design changes, construction staging, hand excavation in sensitive root zones and proper fencing, it is often possible to build within or adjacent to the CRZ while retaining the tree. Our arborist has experience working with contractors and designers to find practical solutions.
How long does it take to prepare a TAPP in Markham?
A standard residential TAPP for a single-lot building permit is typically ready within seven to ten business days of our site visit. Complex sites with multiple regulated trees, tight CRZ overlaps with proposed construction, or large development applications may take longer. We confirm the timeline when you book the assessment.
Do you install the tree protection fencing as well?
Yes. We install the required orange snow fence tree protection barriers to the specification required by the City of Markham as part of our TAPP service. Fencing installation is also available as a standalone service for contractors who have their own approved TAPP and need the fencing erected before their first site inspection.
What happens if a protected tree is damaged during construction?
Damage to a tree that was prescribed for retention in an approved TAPP is a violation of By-law 2023-164 and can result in significant fines. The property owner and the contractor of record can both be held responsible. Proper fencing, staging compliance and periodic monitoring by our arborist are the most effective protections against this outcome. We offer construction monitoring services for projects with complex tree protection requirements.
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Get a Free Estimate for Tree Work in Markham
We serve all of Markham including Unionville, Cornell, Markham Village, Angus Glen, Cathedraltown, Berczy Village, Wismer Commons, Box Grove, Milliken Mills, Cachet, Raymerville, Greensborough and Buttonville. Our certified arborist visits your property, confirms bylaw requirements and provides a firm written quote before any work begins.