North Vancouver Tree Pruning Done Right: A DNV-Compliant Case Study
A North Vancouver Garden Reborn: The Art of Strategic Tree Pruning
The cedars stood like silent green giants in the backyard, their dense canopies casting deep shadows across the North Vancouver property. At over 75cm in diameter, these weren't just any trees - they were protected under DNV bylaws, requiring careful consideration with every cut. This is how we brought light and balance back to the landscape while respecting nature's guardians.
The Pruning Prescription
For the Backyard Cedars:
5-foot canopy elevation - Carefully raised skirts to allow light to dance beneath
25% thinning - Removed selective branches to reduce wind resistance
Bylaw compliance - Submitted arborist reports for all protected specimens
For the Willows & Hedges:
Pussy willow removal - Cleared space between sheds
Scouler willow surgery - Removed failed leaders, added 2ft clearance over shed
Cedar hedge rejuvenation - Aggressive trim to reclaim driveway boundaries
Why North Vancouver Properties Need Expert Pruning
The DNV Factor
- Protected trees require permit-approved pruning (we handled all paperwork)
- Incorrect cuts on cedars >75cm DBH can bring $5,000+ fines
The Light Equation
Our 25% thinning:
Doubled sunlight reaching the lawn
Saved struggling rhododendrons beneath the cedarsThe Safety Calculus
- Removed deadwood threatening the deck staircase
- Prevented willow leaders from failing onto sheds
Breaking Down the Investment
| Service | Why It Costs What It Does |
|---|---|
| 3 Cedar Prunes ($2,415) | DNV reports + 2-day climb rigging |
| Pussy Willow Removal ($345) | Tight access between structures |
| Cedar Hedge Rehab ($520) | 3 years of growth corrected |
The North Vancouver Difference
Unlike cheaper crews who:
Skip permit applications
Over-thin canopies (causing sunscald)
Leave debris "for compost"
We:
✔ DNV-perfect paperwork
✔ Follow Canopy Thinning best practice
✔ Haul every branch (no hidden disposal fees)
