Tree Maintenance

We maintain an annual contract for tree trimming and line clearing. This occurs in select areas of the city on a three year rotation.

This program ensures:

• Clearance is maintained between trees and distribution circuits so that continuity of service may be assured and the public is protected against hazards due to interference of trees with overhead lines
• Proper clearance is maintained between the trees and roadway/sidewalk areas to assure the public is protected from hazards due to trees interfering with the travelled portions of roadway and sidewalks
• A healthy urban tree canopy is maintained by elevating, trimming and removing deadwood, and inspecting trees set out within this program

Only recognized arboriculture practices are used by the contractor through this program. The health and appearance of trees are maintained at a level consistent with existing conditions.

Tree trimming in parks and public spaces occurs on an ongoing basis throughout high traffic locations over a five year rotation.

This program ensures:

• Lower canopy lifting is maintained to provide a minimum of nine feet of clearance
• Strategic structural pruning and thinning is maintained to promote good air circulation and reduce pests on all tree species including newly planted and established trees
• Recognized standard arboriculture practices are performed by staff and contractors to ensure a healthy urban tree canopy and elongates the life of trees in Belleville
• Storm damage response

Work orders provide a method for residents to report concerns or requests relating to trees on public property within Belleville. Requests can be submitted through our Report an Issue form online. When submitting a request, please be sure to identify whether the tree is located in the right-of-way or park, as well as the reason for concern. We inspect and complete work orders in priority sequence.

In accordance with the Tree Canopy and Natural Vegetation Policy, trees are removed when they are dead, diseased, damaged beyond repair, deemed to be hazardous, interfering with City infrastructure or if they are an undesirable or noxious species. Once a tree is removed, the location is added to a tree planting list for the next calendar year (or a similar location if the location is deemed inappropriate).

Damaged trees and fallen branches can be unpredictable. We recommend that you seek qualified, insured tree care professionals to perform work on branches larger than 15 centimetres (six inches) in diameter, or on trees within four metres of overhead lines.

While Ash Trees can be affected by the Emerald Ash Borer, there is no immediate need to cut down ash trees on your property. If you suspect an ash tree on your property is infested, you are encouraged to contact a certified arborist to confirm this. If your tree has died or is a hazard, you will need to arrange for its removal as the roots of this species rot very quickly and present a hazardous situation. For your safety, larger trees should be removed by a qualified and insured tree professional.