Common Questions About Tree Care in Ottawa
Tree care often raises questions about permits, property lines, tree health, and safety. The answers below address common concerns property owners have about tree removal, pruning, and tree care in Ottawa.
Am I allowed to remove my tree?
In Ottawa, a tree removal permit is typically required for trees measuring 30 cm or more in diameter at 1.3 m above ground level. Dead trees or trees considered an immediate hazard may be exempt. As certified arborists, we can assess the tree, provide documentation if needed, and help guide you through the permit process.
How much does tree removal cost?
Tree removal costs vary depending on the size, condition, and location of the tree, as well as site access and safety considerations. Factors such as nearby structures, hydro lines, decay, limited access, or the need for specialized equipment like cranes can all affect pricing.
Our quotes typically include the complete removal of all wood, brush, and debris. If a tree removal permit is required within Ottawa’s urban boundary, additional City application fees may also apply.
Am I allowed to cut my neighbour’s tree that comes into my yard?
You may be allowed to prune branches that extend onto your property, provided the work does not damage or destabilize the tree. Removing large limbs could be considered destructive, so it’s always best to speak with your neighbour before any work is completed.
Am I allowed to excavate around my tree or my neighbour's tree?
Excavation and root pruning near a tree should be done carefully to avoid damaging its stability or long-term health. Removing major roots can weaken or kill a tree, which may result in liability if the tree is on a neighbouring property. Before beginning any excavation work, it’s best to consult both your neighbour and a certified arborist.
Tree removal vs. tree pruning: Which makes sense for my tree?
The right approach depends on the tree’s condition, the level of risk, and your long-term goals for the property. In many cases, pruning and proactive maintenance can improve tree structure, reduce risk, and extend the life of a healthy tree.
Regular pruning is especially valuable while trees are still developing, helping them grow safely within the surrounding environment. Proper maintenance can often prevent larger structural issues later on and preserve the long-term benefits trees provide.
However, when a tree has advanced decay, significant structural defects, root rot, or widespread decline, removal may become the safest and most practical option. A professional tree assessment can help determine whether pruning, cabling, monitoring, or removal is the best solution for your tree.
Why are there mushrooms growing out of my tree?
Mushrooms are the fruiting bodies of fungi that grow inside the tree or surrounding wood. Their presence often indicates internal decay, as the fungus breaks down wood fibres beneath the surface. In many cases, this means there is already significant decomposition within the tree.
Some fungi are saprophytic (feeding on dead or decaying wood), while others can affect living tissue and contribute to decline. Either way, visible mushrooms are a sign that the tree should be assessed by a certified arborist to determine its structural health and risk level.
What is chewing my tree’s leaves?
Leaf damage is commonly caused by chewing insects that feed directly on foliage. These are different from sap-sucking insects like aphids or scale, which extract plant fluids instead.
Chewing insects, such as Japanese beetles or leaf skeletonizers, consume parts of the leaf tissue, often leaving holes, ragged edges, or only the leaf veins behind. Some, like leaf miners, feed between the layers of the leaf, creating a “skeletonized” appearance.
While most defoliation is not fatal to healthy trees, repeated or severe feeding can reduce a tree’s vigour and make it more vulnerable to other pests and disease. Maintaining overall tree health through proper watering and soil conditions is the most effective long-term defence. In some cases, monitoring or targeted treatment may be recommended depending on the severity of the infestation.
Why is my tree’s bark falling off?
In many cases, bark shedding can be a normal part of tree growth. As a tree expands in diameter, older bark may naturally exfoliate or crack as new layers form underneath. Some species shed bark in sheets or patches, while others develop deep furrows to accommodate growth.
However, if bark is coming off along with the underlying living tissue (the cambium), it can indicate injury, disease, or decline in that area of the tree. Trees are often able to compartmentalize localized damage and form callus tissue over time, but the extent of recovery depends on the severity and cause.
If bark loss appears widespread, or if the exposed areas look dead or discoloured, it’s best to have the tree assessed by a certified arborist to determine its condition and risk level.
Can I transplant my tree?
Yes, trees can be transplanted, but success depends on the size of the tree, root preservation, and site conditions. In most cases, a tree spade is used to lift a larger, more intact root ball, which helps reduce transplant shock.
The more of the root system that can be preserved, the better the chances of successful establishment in a new location. Smaller trees are easier to transplant, while larger trees require more specialized equipment and care.
After transplanting, the tree needs consistent watering and proper soil conditions to help it re-establish. In some cases, soil amendments or root-supporting treatments may also be recommended to encourage recovery.
Are tree removal companies insured?
Reputable tree removal companies should carry full liability and workers’ compensation insurance. This protects both the crew and the property owner in the event of accidents or damage.
Professional companies can typically provide proof of insurance or certificates before any work begins.
