Permit for pruning trees in Granby

In what cases does the felling of a tree not require a permit?

In Granby, there are a few exclusive cases that allow you to cut down a tree without needing to obtain a permit:

• The tree is dead or diseased;
• This one presents dangers to public safety;
• It infringes on the integrity of private or public property;
• This is a cedar tree that has been landscaped as a hedge;
• It is a Lombardy poplar, white poplar, Canada poplar, weeping willow, silver maple, American elm.

If you notice that your tree is dead or suffering from a disease, you must consult an arborist who will establish a diagnosis on the tree in question. Keep the survey report and take photos of the tree to substantiate the condition of the tree.

In the case of a dead ash tree, it can only be felled between October 1 and April 30, unless its presence presents an immediate danger to people or property. The wood can be moved, but only in the area where the felling took place.

Granby Tree Cutting Regulations

If the reasons for cutting down a tree in Granby are other than those mentioned above, you must apply for a permit from the Urbanism department. Since 2021, the rules have become very strict regarding the cutting, pruning and trimming of trees.

In fact, cutting the tree too severely will damage its health. This is why an arborist can only cut 20% of the branches and 30% if the tree is located within 3 meters of a building. If you don’t meet this percentage, you can be fined.

Any removal of a healthy tree must be followed by the planting of at least one new tree with a minimum diameter of 2 cm at breast height. The newly planted tree must be a minimum of 1.3 m high.

As mentioned previously, if you do not respect the rules of pruning, trimming or cutting in Granby, you expose yourself to severe penalties. Fines can be as high as $5,000 for land under 1 hectare, and up to $15,000 per hectare for large-scale clearing.

If the tree to be cut down, pruned or trimmed is located near electrical wires, it is essential to call Hydro-Québec beforehand. The risk of electrocution in these areas is particularly high.

Finally, the city of Granby as well as its surroundings, notably Shefford, Roxton Pond, St-Alphonse-de-Granby and Waterloo, have tree waste treatment centers to safely dispose of branches and leaves after felling, pruning and trimming.