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Tree Trimming

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chainsaw cutting branches

Trees benefit everyone by purifying the air we breathe and reducing the effects of pollution. Here is what you need to know about trees in the Town of Tillsonburg.

Street trees 
Trees planted along Town streets 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 to the Customer Service Centre.
Trimming standards
 Public Works staff are responsible for trimming and removing street trees when required.
  • Removing diseased or dying street trees
  • Trimming damaged branches or limbs that limit visibility for people and vehicles
  • Trimming street trees to ensure a 4.25 m (14 foot) clearance over roadways

Trees may also be trimmed to allow clearance for Tillsonburg Hydro Inc., wires.
Trees on private property
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

 
Frequently Asked Questions

 I think my street tree needs trimming, who should I contact?
Contact the Customer Service Centre at 519-842-9200.  Town staff will investigate and coordinate any necessary remedial work.
 I want the street tree in front of my house removed, who should I contact?
Contact the Customer Service Centre at 519-842-9200.  Town staff will place the identified tree on the arbourists inspection list for assessment.  The Town will not remove any healthy assessed street tree.
 Who is responsible for the tree roots that are damaging my sewer pipe?
Each property owner is responsible for the entire sewer pipe up to the property line.  Tree roots are often blamed for blocking sewer pipes, however, tree roots only penetrate sewer pipes that were previously damaged by other factors such as poor construction, aging or soil settlement.
 Who is responsible for a private tree failure on public property?
If a private tree falls onto a street, only that portion of the tree that is on public property will be removed.  The remainder of the private tree is the responsibiity of the home owner.
 I live in a new subdivision and my street tree is dead, who should I contact?
The planting of all street trees in a new subdivision is the responsibilty of the Developer.  Please contact your Developer directly for replacement of dead street trees.

Contact(s)