Can I prune my boulevard tree?
Unless authorized by the City’s forestry supervisor, a resident is not permitted to prune or otherwise alter in any way a City-owned tree.
Contact parks and forestry so staff can take the necessary information and answer your questions. Forestry staff investigate all pruning requests and will work on:
- removing dead or weak limbs to maintain a safe environment for the public
- ensuring visibility for traffic signs and providing required vehicle and pedestrian clearance
- addressing tree-related concerns of adjacent landowners by lifting, thinning, or cutting back City-owned trees as necessary
Pruning will be completed in a professional manner as established by the International Society of Arboriculture.
After I call to have a tree pruned, when will someone come and do the work?
Tree maintenance sites are inspected as soon as possible, and work is completed on a priority basis. Anything posing a danger to the public is prioritized. Other requests are completed on a first-come basis according to equipment and staff availability.
What if I want my tree removed?
Trees will only be removed if they are dead or pose a danger to the public.
When will the stump from my tree removal be taken out?
Trees that might be hazardous to the public are removed first. Crews are in high demand during the summer months and non-hazardous work can sometimes accumulate.
How can I get a tree planted on my boulevard?
Email parksandforestry@welland.ca and include your name and address to be added to the tree planting database. Staff will inspect the boulevard to ensure that the property meets the necessary criteria to plant a viable tree. Requests for trees are considered for the following year’s tree planting program.
What are the criteria for having a tree planted?
The City follows policy from the International Society of Arboriculture Urban Forestry, and department practices. There are certain guidelines to follow when planting near or within intersections, driveways, streetlights, fire hydrants, communication boxes, underground vaults, overhead wires, curbs, and sidewalks.
When will the tree removed from my boulevard be replaced?
Trees that are removed will most likely be replaced in the fall or the following year.
How do I know if my tree is located on my property or City property?
Review your home survey for your property lines. City trees are planted within two metres of the curb or one and a half metres from the sidewalk on the boulevard side. You can contact public works if you’re unsure of the property line.
Do I need a permit to take down a tree on my own property?
No, and we will update the website if this policy changes.
Can I have the wood when you take my tree down?
Yes.
How should I care for the new tree that was planted?
Your new tree should be watered at least twice a week for the first month. Newly planted trees don’t require fertilizer for the first year. A topping of mulch helps maintain moisture and is a protection barrier from lawnmowers and weeds.
A tree in the naturalization area behind my home has fallen. Will you remove it? Can I take the wood from fallen trees/branches?
Please do not remove branches or trees from naturalized wooded areas. These spaces should be left in their natural state and are not manicured by the City. The benefits of leaving woody material to decompose include habitat for organisms, recycling of nutrients and organic material, and regeneration sites for plants, water reservoirs, and tree roots.