Tree and Shrub Removal
Jack of All Trees
Do I need a permit for tree removal?
If a homeowner wishes to remove, cut down or even cut back a tree in a way that might injure it, the City of Toronto requires them to obtain a permit. For example, if someone wished to remove more than 25% of the tree’s canopy, this may harm the tree and they would need to obtain a permit to carry out the work.
If a tree’s diameter is greater than 30cm (12 inches) a permit to carry out tree removal will be needed. To give you a general idea of this size, this is the approximate thickness of a telephone pole. To correctly measure a tree’s diameter yourself, take the measurement at breast height, that is 1.4 meters (approximately 4.5 feet) from ground level close to the base of the tree.
Removing dangerous trees
When a tree has been assessed as being an imminently hazardous tree, for example if it is structurally compromised and there is an imminent danger of causing a threat to life or property, it is important to act quickly. This is often the case with ash trees infected by the Emerald Ash Borer.
Whilst as a general rule to remove a tree in the Greater Toronto area you need a permit, where there is a risk of imminent danger, you can obtain a private tree permit exemption. However, a certified arborist report is still required. We must also receive approval from the Urban Forestry division before we remove the tree. There is no application fee to obtain this permit exemption, but you will be given a deadline to complete the tree removal.
Worried about a dangerous tree?
Tree Removal Costs in Toronto
Tree removal costs in Toronto will depend on several different factors. The cost will vary depending on the size and location of the tree. If the removal of the tree may be hazardous this will increase the costs. We will always put your safety, avoiding any risk to your property and our workers’ first. So, if we assess that a tree is unsafe to climb, we will bring in the right equipment, such as cranes and spider lifts to remove it safely. Please do not try to cut corners or costs and take risks with your or other people’s safety when removing trees. Always use a certified arborist company.
Jack of All Trees is a certified arborist. We operate an end to end tree and shrub removal service. From inspection and assessment, providing an arborist report, obtaining all the necessary permits, safe tree removal and disposal of material, we can handle the whole thing for you.
There is never a job too small or too big when dealing with us. Please contact us to arrange a tree inspection and a free, written quotation.
Ash Tree Removal Toronto
If you are a homeowner in the Greater Toronto area and have ash trees, it is important that you have them inspected for any signs of the Emerald Ash Borer beetle. This beetle is killing ash trees throughout the Greater Toronto area (in fact it is its larvae that does the damage). Homeowners are legally responsible for dealing with the ash trees on their property. If there are signs of infestation you should contact an arborist immediately as the tree may already be dangerous. If you have any dead or dying ash trees then these should be removed right away and disposed of safely.
In any case, it is a good idea to ask a certified arborist check the ash trees on your property. If there are signs of infestation they can be treated or, if necessary, removed and replanted with a different species. You can find out more information about the Emerald Ash Borer beetle and how to manage it here.
To arrange a free ash tree inspection on your property, contact Jack of All Trees.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tree & Shrub Removal
Do I need a permit to remove or cut back my trees in Toronto?
If you live in Toronto and the tree has diameter of over 30 cm you will require a permit. Trees of all diameters are protected in Ravine Protection Areas. You can find out more details here.
Can I cut down my trees myself?
It’s tempting to try and remove a tree yourself to save a bit of money. But this is one job that really is not one for diy enthusiasts. There are so many things that could go wrong and cause injury or damage to your property. Please don’t cut corners with this one. Get a advice or a quote for tree removal from a certified arborist.
How do I know if a tree is dangerous?
There are lots of signs that a tree may be dangerous or becoming dangerous. Look for signs of disease or damage. Are there dead or fallen branches or areas with thinning or no foliage? Fungus on the trunk or near the roots can be a sign of decay. Are there signs of infestation? Cracks and splits in the bark or trunk may also be signs of a problem. A tree that is leaning may or may not be dangerous. It is a good idea to have your trees regularly checked by a certified arborist at least every 3 years and after extreme weather events. If you see any signs of damage or disease also get your trees checked.
What is the Emerald Ash Borer?
The Emerald Ash Borer is a non-native pest that attacks and kills all species of North American Ash trees. It has had a devastated effect on ash trees across Ontario. However, it is treatable. If caught early enough ash trees can be saved. If you have ash trees on your property regularly inspect them for signs of infestation. You can find out more about the EAB here.
What are the signs that my ash tree has an Emerald Ash Borer infestation?
Early signs can be hard to spot. If you notice early thinning or yellowing of leaves, or the tips of branches dying, especially in a group of ash then it could be a sign of infestation. Other signs include long shoots growing from the trunk, vertical cracks in the trunk, signs of tunnelling under the bark and exit holes. If branches are dying or the leaf canopy is sparse this could be a sign of later stages. Call an arborist at the first signs whilst there is still a chance to save your tree.
