Trees
Trees
Trees benefit everyone by purifying the air we breathe and reducing the effects of pollution. Large street trees provide cleaner air, cooler building temperatures and beautify our neighbourhood.
Here is what you need to know about trees in the Township of East Zorra-Tavistock.
Trees planted along Township streets and road allowance help provide shade and make neighbourhoods more livable for people and animals.
You can help keep the trees in your area healthy by following these guidelines:
- Don't trim street trees. If you notice a tree that appears damaged, dying or potentially diseased, contact us.
- Do not excavate around the base of a tree. You can easily damage the tree's feeder roots.
- Do not remove wood chips or mulch at the base of tree. They protect the tree from damage and reduce water loss.
- Do not pile soil or grass clipping over the mulch/wood chips.
Damaged, dying or potentially diseased street trees should be reported online or to the Township Office.
Trimming trees on private property is the responsibility of the property owner(s).
If a neighbour's tree is having a negative impact on your property, try to come to an agreement on what action should be taken. If an agreement cannot be reached, you may want to consult a lawyer to determine your legal rights.
If you decide to trim branches from a tree that is not yours, please remember:
- You cannot trespass on your neighbour's property
- You cannot damage your neighbour's property (i.e. tree)
- You have the right to maintain your property in a safe condition
The township will sometimes have a tree planting program to replenish trees in a developed area. To suggest a location for a new tree or request trees to be planted on your property, contact the Township Office.
Frequently asked questions
Street trees are maintained by the Township. Damaging and/or removal of a township tree are chargeable offenses. Contact the Township Office. Public Works staff will investigate and coordinate any necessary work.
Contact the Township Office. Staff will place the identified tree on an inspection list for assessment.
The wood from trees cut on a road allowance belongs to the property owner if we can fall the tree onto their property. If the tree is felled into the road ditch, the property owner has first right for 60 days.
Any wood left after 60 days or any wood not wanted by the property owner shall be disposed of by the roads department. Trees that cannot be felled safely shall be removed by a competent contractor.