Cutting down trees on your property in Canada is not very simple as there are tree laws to honour and follow. If you think that your or a neighbour’s property needs to be cut down, you need to abide by the laws of your city. It also helps to call for tree services to safely cut it down.

Quick Note on Endangered Trees

When Should I Cut Down a Tree in My Property?

As of 2018, there are at least 771 endangered species in Canada. Before deciding to cut down a tree, call an arborist to assess the problem and identify the tree. Cutting down endangered trees may take time as permits need to be secured to justify its removal.

Regardless of your reasons for cutting trees, the dangers are very real. Tapping the help of tree cut down professionals saves you from the possible problems that may arise.

Reasons to Cut Down Trees

Trees offer great benefits to properties and animals. They provide fresh air and shade during the hot and warm seasons, offer a place to hang out, and improve the landscape. However, there are instances when the tree needs to be cut down. 

Here are a few reasons a tree needs to be removed:

  • When the Tree is Dead or Dying

When Should I Cut Down a Tree in My Property?

A dead tree is more than an unpleasant sight; it can also do a number on the rest of your plants by spreading disease or infestation. You would have to see a tree expert who can determine if it has indeed died or is just dormant.

If a tree isn’t dead but dying, you may also need to have it removed immediately if the following are true:

  • Fungal Infection

Look out for fungal infection in the tree. Some people may mistake moss and lichen as danger signs of the tree dying, but more often than not, they are naturally occurring and can even help the tree thrive. On the other hand, fungi eat up the tree’s nutrients, sucking up its life.

  • Roots Showing

The trees should be firmly planted underground. While this is not an indication of death, it could also lead to it in the long run. Trees get their nutrients underground. Visible roots means they are not receiving ample nourishment. This can cause them to die, lose grip, and eventually fall on properties nearby.

A dying tree still has hope but needs the attention of an arborist. Depending on the nature of the issue, the arborist can suggest treatments like pest control or antifungal applications. In the event that only parts of the tree are dead, pruning is the best choice. 

  • When It Is Hazardous

When Should I Cut Down a Tree in My Property?

A hazardous tree poses a certain level of risk to the people living in a property. An example of this is when a tree is leaning on a wall or is visibly unstable. The neighbour can call the attention of the tree owner so that action will be taken as soon as possible.

  • When It Blocks Any Vital Part of the Property

Under the Human Rights Code, Canadians should have access to their properties without any hindrance. For this reason, trees can be felled if they block the main entrances, pathways, or a vital part of the property. This falls under the Accommodation clause of the Rights Code which gives human convenience the top priority.

  • When Preparing for Hurricanes and Storms

To deter the dangers of natural calamities, the Canadian Government encourages its people to trim branches and cut down dead trees. There is a tendency for these giants to fall down when strong winds beat at them. Clearing your property of liabilities such as these lessens the chances of trees toppling over homes and other important possessions.

Hazards of Cutting Down Trees

When Should I Cut Down a Tree in My Property?

Felling trees is not an easy job. If you want to personally cut trees in your property, you need to consider the dangers you may be facing. Non-professionals can make mistakes which may cost them additional money. In the worst-case scenario, you may end up causing accidents and fatalities. 

Here are some of the dangers you will face if non-professionals attempt to cut down a tree on their own:

  • Falling on Properties

The direction at which a tree falls is influenced by different factors: the direction of growth, the location of the person cutting, the weight of the branches, and the strength of the trunk. If the person is inexperienced, the tree can land on roadways, poles, vehicles, walls, homes, or worse, on people.

  • Power Outages

When trees come in contact with power lines, it may result in outages, electrocution, or fire. This explains why electric companies regularly send out tree-trimming teams to ensure poles are free of obstructions like tree branches. Outages mean people who are affected would have to wait for the power company to send out technicians to repair the lines to get power back. The inconvenience may not sit well with your neighbours.

  • Accidents Caused by Loose Limbs and Debris

Cutting down a tree means chopping down several segments. It may be convenient, but it can also result in accidents if debris and loose branches fall on people and properties. The risk is larger if the tree is dead or dying.

  • Malfunctioning and Mishandling of Chainsaw

Chainsaws, while commonly used for felling trees, can also be dangerous. If the person operating it is not experienced, it can lead to serious accidents. Approximately 36,000 people are injured by chainsaws during tree removal.

Why Hire Professional Tree Service

When Should I Cut Down a Tree in My Property?

Cutting a tree down on your own would take time and does not guarantee a thorough job. On the other hand, leaving the job to professionals means the cutting, cleaning, and disposing of debris are cared for in a safe manner and within contract time.

Asking the help of professionals to have a tree cut down also means saving money while taking advantage of their skills, tools, and equipment.

If you need tree removal services in your neighbourhood or property, call Dave Lund Tree Service and Forestry. We have been servicing the York Region for more than 40 years. Our track record can prove the value of our hard work backed by up-to-date gadgets and tools. Call us toll-free at 1-800-363-0511.