If you own a home or manage a property in Ottawa, you might find yourself needing tree removal.

While tree removal is a fairly straightforward process, it is definitely something left to tree professionals and arborists. From your end, the important things to decide are
• when to remove a tree (versus when to keep it, prune the branches, etc.)
• whether you will need an Ottawa tree removal permit
• who you will call on to remove the tree(s)

Read on to find out what steps you can take to make sure your tree removal is carried out safely and in compliance with Ottawa bylaws.

How to Remove a Tree

Under no circumstances, you should remove a large tree by yourself!

You won’t want to hire amateurs, either – any cost savings will likely be mitigated (and then some) by:
(a) the added risk should they get injured on your property
(b) cause injury to others
(c) or cause damage to your property

Tree maintenance and tree removal tasks should be reserved only to Certified Arborists. These qualified professionals hold ISA certification and undergo training and exams to ensure we deliver the best possible tree care service.

When to Remove a Tree in Ottawa 

If your tree is healthy and does not pose a risk to anyone, but you want to have it removed anyway, you may cut down a tree that is on your property – provided you comply with the Ottawa tree removal bylaws.

Now for the best time of year to cut down that tree. If possible, cut it down in late winter or (more likely) in the early springtime.

During this season, a tree’s development cycle slows down. Plants and trees decrease their uptake of sugars in winter, which results in less photosynthesis. In other words, this is how they save energy for spring days.

Less foliage will definitely make the job easier. Also, removing trees in late winter or early spring could possibly end up costing a bit less, since arborists are generally less busy during the cold season.

City of Ottawa Tree Removal Permits

Over the last years, the City of Ottawa has tried to protect trees from being cut unnecessarily, particularly in urban areas. If you want to cut down a tree in your property, you will need to obtain a permit.

The ultimate goal of the local government is to ensure that those trees being cut in urban areas are diseased or pose a risk to properties or people. However, the rules are different depending on the situation.

If the tree you want to remove has a diameter of roughly 50cm, you need to obtain a Distinctive Tree Permit. However, this applies only to urban areas. If the tree is located in rural land, a golf course, a farm or a cemetery, the permit won’t be necessary. Keep in mind that if the tree is on property larger than one hectare, you will also need approval from the City.

What happens if you need a permit but go ahead and cut that tree down without one?

The penalties associated with this offence can range from $500 to $100,000, depending on the situation. Not worth the risk, is it?!

Other Aspects to Consider for Tree Removal

If the trunk of the tree borders on other properties, which is usual in Ottawa, all property owners should agree on the removal.

An Arborist Report will follow this agreement template. Afterwards, an inspector will visit the site and issue the final removal permit.

Tree Removal: Your Next Steps

Taking this into consideration, be sure to follow the steps and let professionals do the job to save you a legal headache AND injury or property damage.

Contact Croft Tree Experts today!

We will ensure your tree removal is done in a safe manner and by the book.