Public and private trees
In Wrenford, the rules for reporting a tree depend on where it is growing. Trees on city land, including boulevards, parks, trails, and the right-of-way along streets, are maintained by the City. Trees on private property are the responsibility of the property owner.
Reporting a city tree
If you see a tree on city land that is dead, diseased, leaning dangerously, or blocking a sidewalk, report it so By-law Enforcement can send an inspector. You can call 311 from inside city limits or 519-555-0100 from outside. You can also submit a request through the online by-law reporting form or email [email protected].
City arborists will assess the tree and decide if it needs pruning, treatment, or removal. You do not need a permit to report a city tree. If the City decides to remove it, a replacement will be planted according to the City's tree replacement policy.
Reporting a private tree
If a tree is on your property or a neighbour's property, the owner is responsible for its care. You can still report a private tree if it is a safety hazard, has dead branches hanging over a public sidewalk, or violates the Property Standards By-law 2019-112. An inspector will visit the property to determine if a compliance order is needed.
When you need a permit
Wrenford protects its urban canopy through the Tree Protection By-law 2024-089. You must apply for a permit before removing or pruning a tree in the following cases:
- Any tree on city land, regardless of size.
- Any tree on private property with a trunk diameter of 15 centimetres or more, measured at 1.4 metres above the ground.
- Work happening within three metres of a public tree on the boulevard or right-of-way.
You do not need a permit to remove a small private tree under 15 centimetres in diameter, unless it was previously marked as a replacement tree or is part of a new development site.
Tree removal and development
If you are building or renovating a home or business, you must protect existing trees. If your project involves removing a tree over 15 centimetres in diameter, you must submit an arborist report with your building permit application. The City requires a Tree Protection Plan if any construction equipment or materials will be stored within three metres of a public or private tree.
What to expect after you report
Once you submit a report, a By-law Enforcement officer will review the details. You can expect the following:
- 3 to 5 business days: Initial review period. An officer may contact you for more information.
- Site inspection: An inspector will visit the location within 10 business days for urgent hazards, or within 30 business days for routine maintenance requests.
- Resolution: You will receive a letter or email explaining the outcome. If a by-law violation is confirmed, the property owner will be given a compliance order to fix the issue within a set timeframe.
If you are the property owner and receive a compliance order, you have 30 days to submit a plan or complete the work. If the work is not done, the City may carry out the repairs and bill you, or issue a fine under the Provincial Offences Act.
The details are in this notice.
Who to contact
For questions about tree reports, permits, or the Tree Protection By-law, contact the By-law Enforcement office:
- Manager: Noah Feldman
- Phone: 519-555-0100
- Email: [email protected]
- Office: Wrenford City Hall, 100 Mercer Street, Wrenford, ON N4Q 1A1
For emergency tree hazards that block a road or pose an immediate danger, call 311 or the after-hours utilities line at 519-555-0111.