Certificat for tree removal. Kirkland CityThe preservation of trees is of prime importance these days. It is therefore normal that municipalities legislate to participate in this objective. After all, these great trees bring so many benefits to our human lives! So, we can understand that a tree cannot be cut down as soon as it is considered without having to respect constraints on the territory of the City of Kirkland, as is also the case elsewhere.
This page provides information to help you find your answer. However, it is always essential to refer to the official versions of any by-law, including the zoning by-law, and to the competent authorities in order to have up-to-date, complete information and its proper interpretation. 
|
|
Certificate of authorization for tree removal
The general rule for trees in Kirkland is that it is forbidden to cut down a healthy tree. Now, felling authorizations are possible, but, to do so, it is required to request an authorization and to obtain a felling certificate from the Public Works Department. This request is free and concerns trees with a diameter of 10 centimetres (4 inches) measured at 15 centimetres (6 inches) from the ground. Please do not touch any City-owned trees. You cannot decide to cut down a City-owned tree, even if it is bothering you.
Note that cutting 50% of a tree's branches or removing more than 40% of its root system is considered felling. Covering the tree with 20 centimetres (nearly 8 inches) or more of fill, using a toxic product to kill a tree, or making continuous incisions all around a tree trunk (in the bark, the phloem [the inner area of the bark where sap circulates] or the wood) also constitute felling.
In addition, any tree that is cut down must be replaced within 90 days if it was located in front of or beside your property. The tree must be at least 1.5 metres (approximately 5 feet) in height and be of a permitted species. For example, poplars, willows, catalpa and silver maples can only be planted in parks. You also cannot plant an ash tree as a replacement for a felled tree. In addition, Chapter 5 of the Zoning By-law lists invasive species that are prohibited within a 100-metre prohibition band surrounding a protected natural environment or one that is about to be protected. These species are identified as part of the Territories of Ecological Interest Plan. This plan is annexed to the urban plan.
Note that cutting 50% of a tree's branches or removing more than 40% of its root system is considered felling. Covering the tree with 20 centimetres (nearly 8 inches) or more of fill, using a toxic product to kill a tree, or making continuous incisions all around a tree trunk (in the bark, the phloem [the inner area of the bark where sap circulates] or the wood) also constitute felling.
In addition, any tree that is cut down must be replaced within 90 days if it was located in front of or beside your property. The tree must be at least 1.5 metres (approximately 5 feet) in height and be of a permitted species. For example, poplars, willows, catalpa and silver maples can only be planted in parks. You also cannot plant an ash tree as a replacement for a felled tree. In addition, Chapter 5 of the Zoning By-law lists invasive species that are prohibited within a 100-metre prohibition band surrounding a protected natural environment or one that is about to be protected. These species are identified as part of the Territories of Ecological Interest Plan. This plan is annexed to the urban plan.
What are the acceptable reasons?
Trees whose size requires a Certificate of Approval may be cut down if they are dead or diseased, if they are damaging the property, or if they represent a potential for falling branches or other hazards, or if they must be cut down as part of a new construction or expansion.
If an ash tree is more than 30% infested with EAB, it should normally be felled. It is possible to obtain grants for their removal. Details can be found on the Emerald Ash Borer Financial Assistance Program page on the City of Kirkland website. The irreversibility of a disease or other condition or serious damage to a tree must be confirmed by an arboricultural expert.
Tree-related inconveniences such as unpleasant odours, falling leaves, flowers or twigs, etc., are not acceptable reasons.
Specificities are mentioned in Chapter 5 of the Zoning By-law. In particular, with respect to the location of sites or the banks of bodies of water. A pdf version of each chapter of this by-law can be downloaded from the City of Kirkland website.
In addition, trees that are required to be removed and are the subject of an application must be identified by a string tied around its trunk. This will allow the inspector to identify the tree when he/she visits.
In the case where the felling is not to interfere with a new construction, an extension or the installation of a pool or spa, the felling permit application must be submitted with the building permit application. In this case, the Urban Planning Department will handle the application.
If an ash tree is more than 30% infested with EAB, it should normally be felled. It is possible to obtain grants for their removal. Details can be found on the Emerald Ash Borer Financial Assistance Program page on the City of Kirkland website. The irreversibility of a disease or other condition or serious damage to a tree must be confirmed by an arboricultural expert.
Tree-related inconveniences such as unpleasant odours, falling leaves, flowers or twigs, etc., are not acceptable reasons.
Specificities are mentioned in Chapter 5 of the Zoning By-law. In particular, with respect to the location of sites or the banks of bodies of water. A pdf version of each chapter of this by-law can be downloaded from the City of Kirkland website.
In addition, trees that are required to be removed and are the subject of an application must be identified by a string tied around its trunk. This will allow the inspector to identify the tree when he/she visits.
In the case where the felling is not to interfere with a new construction, an extension or the installation of a pool or spa, the felling permit application must be submitted with the building permit application. In this case, the Urban Planning Department will handle the application.
How to submit your application
The application form for a Certificate of Authorization Tree Cutting a tree is available at the Public Works Department or on the City of Kirkland website, here: https://ville.kirkland.qc.ca/client_file/upload/document/Arbres/formulaire-April-2021_ANG.pdf. Contact information is provided at the end of this page. Please allow approximately 20 business days for your Tree Cutting Permit to be issued by e-mail.
For each tree to be felled, you must specify on the form the reason for the felling, the species and their diameter; you must also locate your trees on the sketch of the form.
For each tree to be felled, you must specify on the form the reason for the felling, the species and their diameter; you must also locate your trees on the sketch of the form.
Point of service for permit applications at Kirkland
The Public Works Department is the one that evaluates your permit application and can provide you with advance information. It is part of the Municipal garage, located at 25 Claude-Jodoin Street, Kirkland. The office is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. It might be wise to validate them. This department can also be reached at tpadmin@ville.kirkland.qc.ca and at 514-630-2727.
However, the mailing address is different. Please send all mail to 17200 Hymus Boulevard, Kirkland, Quebec H9J 3Y8.
However, the mailing address is different. Please send all mail to 17200 Hymus Boulevard, Kirkland, Quebec H9J 3Y8.
Call us now!
514-612-3345
514-612-3345