NEWS RELEASE
CITY OF GUELPH
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The City reminds property owners who plan to remove any trees this spring, to review Guelph’s private tree bylaw to determine if a tree removal permit is needed.
“Removing a tree on your property isn’t as straightforward as one might think, Guelph’s tree bylaw is a good resource that explains the tree removal permit process and when a permit is needed,” explains April Nix, environmental planner with the City of Guelph.
“Spring is a busy time for construction and landscaping projects that often include removing trees, so it’s best to plan ahead and submit your tree removal permit early to avoid delays.”
Ready to remove a tree on your property? Read these considerations first:
- Guelph’s private tree protection tree bylaw applies to trees larger than 10 cm (3.94 inches) in diameter, as measured at 1.4m above the ground, on properties 2 hectares (0.5 acres) or larger. If removing trees regulated under this bylaw, a tree removal permit may be needed.
- City trees are not permitted to be trimmed or removed by property owners. If you’re not sure whether your tree is on City land, contact Parks Operations and Forestry at 519-837-5626 or [email protected].
- The federal Migratory Bird Convention Act protects migratory birds and their nests. Bird nesting season can start as early as mid-March, and go until late July, which can make completing tree removal at this time of year more complicated or delay it from happening until after the birds are done nesting.
- The number of tree removal permit requests increases in spring, when people are starting construction and renovation projects.
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