Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if a tree on my property falls during a storm?
Mitigate the hazard, ensure you are safe. Contact the Tree Bylaw Division as soon as possible – you may need to apply for a Tree Permit. You should also contact your insurance company and hire a qualified arborist to remove the fallen tree.
What if the tree that fell was not a protected tree?
The property owner does not need a permit to clean up a fallen tree on their property if the tree was not a protected tree.
What section of the Tree Bylaw mentions this?
Section 5.6 of the Tree Protection and Regulation Bylaw states:
"In the event that a protected tree is in imminent danger of falling and injuring persons or property due to natural causes, and it is not possible to obtain a permit prior to the tree falling, the owner may cut the tree or have it cut, but shall report the cutting of the tree to the Director within the next business day along with a photograph of the tree prior to such cutting. The owner shall not remove the tree from the lot until the City has attended at the site and has confirmed that the tree was in imminent danger of falling and injuring persons or property. Trees that are cut pursuant to this section must be replaced in accordance with subsections 7.2 and 7.4, security for which must be provided in accordance with the security requirements for replacement trees set out in section 9.0. If the City determines that the tree was not in imminent danger of falling, or was in imminent danger of falling due to reasons other than natural causes, the owner may be subject to the offences and penalties in section 11.0."