Tree Service Victoria BC
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Everything you need to know about cutting down a tree on your property.
It depends! Most cities have tree preservation bylaws in place to protect some tree species and developing trees. Generally speaking you will need a permit to take down a protected tree and to be approved you’ll need to meet specific criteria.
If a tree on your property is not protected by the city. It is always advisable to consult with a certified arborist to determine whether tree removal is actually necessary. There could be other ways to save your tree using techniques like pruning, cabling and bracing.
Let’s explore some more of the questions around removing a tree on your property.
For the most part you’ll need a permit to remove a tree on your property, as most Greater Victoria region city bylaws are in favour of preservation where possible.
If you want to take down a tree there are a number of factors that come into play like; the size of the tree, proximity to your home, it’s condition, and whether it’s deemed hazardous.
First, find out who you need to contact. The City of Victoria, Districts of Saanich and Langford etc, all have a separate set of regulations and application process. Let’s start with the City of Victoria.
The purpose of the Tree Protection Bylaw is to provide for the protection and preservation of trees on private property, including those that are undergoing development. If you would like to prune, remove, or work in the protected zone, a permit may be required.
The same tree protection bylaw outlines the conditions where a tree permit may be issued to cut or remove a bylaw protected tree. For instance, when:
Learn more about the conditions you need to meet for removing a tree.
See related: Should I Remove a Tree – Pros and Cons
You may need to apply for a tree permit if you are planning to prune or remove a protected tree on your property. Protected trees include:
Arbutus trees are protected in the city of Victoria and Saanich. They cannot be removed without special permits, which may be provided to remove dangerous trees.
In BC, Garry oak is not grown for timber production; in fact, it is considered an endangered species as it grows mainly on private lands which are being developed for urban dwellings.
Trees Protected – when at least 2m tall or 4cm in diameter:
Trees Protected when- diameter at breast height (1.4m) is 30cm or more:
Generally speaking you do NOT need a permit to perform basic tree pruning on a protected tree when done in accordance with sound arboriculture practices. However, there are some special cases where pruning might require a permit.
Are you planning to prune:
If yes to either, then a permit is required.
In Saanich, you will require a Tree Cutting Permit when pruning a:
The ATC has put together a great resource on tree permits in Victoria. Please navigate to that page for more information on permits, what you will need and how to apply.
If a tree is NOT protected by the city bylaws, then yes you are allowed to prune or remove that tree.
However, most trees in Greater Victoria fall under that “protected tree” category, so more often than not, you will need to complete a tree permit application.
If you live in Saanich, learn how you can apply to cut down a tree on your property.
Central Saanich residents go here for info on Tree Protection and Bylaws in your district.
Langley residents should refer to Langley City Bylaws
Your best source of more information on this topic is going to be the What You Need to Know About the New Tree Protection Bylaw PDF, created by the City of Victoria
One of the questions that we are commonly asked is whether or not tree removal is a good idea. The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, and it is important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision
At Advantage Tree Care, we understand that trees are an integral part of our ecosystem, that’s why maintaining local trees and urban forests within our city is so important.
If you are concerned about a tree and think it needs to be removed please contact us and we will arrange an onsite visit to provide a free assessment of the situation and offer you practical advice about the most effective way to move forward.
It could be that your tree is encroaching on your property, either leaning on it, or growing into a hazardous position and you think removing it is your only option.
Sometimes it is possible to carry out remedial tree work so as to save the tree, which may also turn out to save you money. We understand the value of trees in our environment from both aesthetic and habitat point of view. Removal of any tree is always a last resort. Pruning and other options such as cabling and bracing are always considered first in order to mitigate the risks of the unhealthy tree.
Just because a tree may pose a risk or hazard, it does not necessarily mean that the whole tree would need to be removed. Depending on the situation there are several options to save the tree, through carrying out preventative maintenance such as pruning of hazardous limbs, weight reduction pruning, as well as cable and bracing. A thorough tree risk assessment will be able to identify your options and costs.
There are a few scenarios when removal of a tree is acceptable. For instance:
So what’s the best course of action?
Unfortunately, there is no easy answer. The decision of whether or not to remove a tree should be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account all of the relevant factors.
With that said, here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of tree removal
As a property owner, it is your responsibility to ensure that your trees do not pose a risk to people and property. If you or a neighbour is concerned about the health and safety of a tree, it is recommended that you commission a certified arborist to carry out a tree risk assessment to determine the potential risks and to identify what work can be carried out to help mitigate the risks.
As qualified arborists, when we assess trees we are able to begin to understand more about the tree and how much risk it poses to public safety based on its location and general health. Changing environmental conditions, for example, change in soil conditions through drought or excess water logging can have significant impacts on a tree’s health and stability.
Tree pruning can be a great alternative to tree removals. The goal is to retain as much of the natural environment as possible, and pruning can help prevent unnecessary tree removals within our beautiful communities. There are a variety of techniques to pruning depending on the given scenario; Structural pruning, Restorative pruning, Tree reductions, Tree thinning & more
Pruning is also especially useful when we are dealing with protected tree species like Garry Oak or Arbutus.
See Related: What are the main advantages of tree pruning
There is a good chance that your tree is protected by city bylaws, if it’s been around for a while. Learn more about tree permits and bylaws in your district.
Natural light, aesthetics, property value, cost of removal, dangerous trees, sick trees, trees encroaching on your property – are some of the many things to consider!
This is why tree removal is a tricky subject. On the one hand, trees can provide a number of benefits, including shade, privacy, and beauty. On the other hand, tree removal can be expensive, and it can also have a negative impact on the environment.
While we do remove fallen, damaged, or sick trees, and get rid of tree stumps, we are really a “Tree Care” company. This means maintaining and caring for your trees to extend their lifespan.
The Advantage Tree Care team offers a number of tree care and arborist services to residents all over Greater Victoria and Saanich. From tree removals and pruning, to health inspections and emergency tree services, we’ve got you covered.
The purpose of the Tree Protection Bylaws is to provide for the protection and preservation of trees on private property, including those that are undergoing development. If you would like to prune or remove a tree, or work in the protected zone, a permit may be required.
You may need to apply for a tree permit if you are planning to prune or remove a protected tree on your property. Protected trees include:
Trees defined as “Protected” under the City of Victoria bylaw include
Trees defined as “Protected” under the bylaw.
When a tree is defined as “Protected”, certain rules apply. For example you may require a permit to remove it, and Saanich can only issue permits for certain reasons, as per the Bylaw.
Trees are Protected for various reasons. From the tree type, size or its location, a rough guide of which trees are protected includes:
Trees Protected – when at least 2m tall or 4cm in diameter:
Trees Protected when- diameter at breast height (1.4m) is 30cm or more:
Trees may also have other forms of protection if registered on the Land Title under a Tree or Natural State Covenant.
AND
Langford is the only municipality of 13 in the Capital Regional District without a specific tree-protection bylaw. Earlier in 2022, Langford council rejected a motion to develop a tree-protection bylaw, saying the city’s development permit process is already protecting trees and environmentally sensitive areas.
The North Saanich Tree Protection Bylaw, which regulates the cutting, removal or damaging of trees on private property, was adopted in 2002. Since then, North Saanich’s urban forest and the challenges it faces have evolved. The District is reviewing its Tree Protection Bylaw to align with current best practices and conditions, while ensuring its responds to our community values. The review will include establishing requirements for replacing protected trees.
This new draft bylaws
If you live in Victoria, your best source of more information information on this topic is the What You Need to Know About the New Tree Protection Bylaw PDF, created by the City of Victoria
If you are concerned about a tree and think it needs to be removed please contact us and we will arrange an onsite visit to provide a free assessment of the situation and offer you practical advice about the most effective way to move forward.
The Advantage Tree Care team offers a number of tree care and arborist services to residents all over Greater Victoria and Saanich. From tree removals and pruning, to health inspections and emergency tree services, we’ve got you covered.
As any tree-lover knows, there are many benefits to pruning trees. Not only does it help to keep them healthy and free of disease, but it also encourages new growth and can even reduce the costs associated with ongoing tree maintenance.
To the layperson pruning a branch may seem like a simple act. However, there is a real art behind pruning trees from both a tree health and tree aesthetics point of view.
Of course, tree pruning is not a one-size-fits-all affair. The type of tree, as well as its age and location, all need to be taken into account when deciding how and when to prune.
Let’s have a look at some of the advantages of pruning trees.
Depending on the location, species and age of your tree it can be advantageous to have a regular pruning regime to promote good air flow and to reduce potential structural failures.
Tree pruning can be a great way to improve the health and appearance of your trees, as well as;
Lastly, pruning can also be great alternative to tree removals. The goal is to retain as much of the natural environment as possible, and pruning can help prevent unnecessary tree removals within our beautiful communities.
Of course you can do it yourself, no-one is stopping you, but you’ve got to weigh up the risks of DIY tree pruning. Danger to your property, injury risk to yourself, and long term damage to your trees through improper pruning.
Tree pruning is not without its challenges. Pruning can be difficult to do correctly, and it is important to avoid damaging the tree, or injuring yourself for that matter.
In most cases, tree pruning is best left to tree care specialists who have the experience and know-how, and who can ensure that your trees are properly cared for.
When you have your tree pruned by a certified arborist you benefit on multiple levels, most importantly;
At Advantage Tree Care, we pride ourselves in the highest quality craftsmanship when it comes to pruning trees and tree care.
In urban areas, a lot of the drivers for pruning trees are due to them being “in the way” of human or building needs and frequently it is more about solving these needs than addressing the needs of the tree.
As arborists we are continually having to get creative with how to achieve what the client wants, whilst maintaining the tree’s health and aesthetics.
Tree Pruning involves a range of techniques. The most popular of these tree pruning methods are crown thinning, reduction, raising, and crown cleaning. The crown of the tree is essential for producing leaves for photosynthesis. Without a healthy and strong crown, the rest of the tree will become weaker over time.
Some examples of the tree pruning methods we use include
If you want more, here is a great video on the ABC’s of Tree Pruning
ATC has extensive experience and we enjoy working with Garry Oaks. They are a valuable tree in our Ecosystem so much so that Oak Bay was named after the Garry Oak. Learn more about pruning Garry Oak
Fruit tree pruning is an art of its own within the tree pruning world. There are multiple methods for pruning fruit trees depending on the overall purpose of the tree, the species and the desired form (shape) it has been trained to.
With fruit trees you can also prune the fruit to enhance fruit size and quality.if you don’t have the confidence to take care of your own fruit trees best to reach out to a tree care company for assistance.
Tree pruning is often seen as tree care’s dark and mysterious art. Many people are afraid to prune their trees, thinking they will do more harm than good.
Having your tree pruned regularly is actually a very important part of tree care. Pruning can help to stimulate new growth, remove diseased or damaged branches, and promote fruit production in fruit trees. In addition, pruning can help to increase air circulation and sunlight penetration, both of which are essential for tree health.
If you think your trees are in need of a little TLC with some regular pruning, don’t be afraid to give your local tree pruners ATC a call, we’d be happy to explain in more detail how our service works.
Arborists have a diverse skillset to help with many different tree care challenges, including expertise with working at height from ropes, operating chainsaws, and other machinery.
Arborists also have a good understanding of tree biology, physics and ecology with extensive tree identification knowledge, and this help us to deliver effective tree care whilst also managing and mitigating risks to people, property and trees.
Here are some of the Arborist and tree care services offered by Advantage Tree Care:
For a quotation and onsite visit, please call 250-508-4445, or visit our contact page to send us a message.
Our friendly, professional approach allows us to work with you to ensure your expectations and requirements are met in a safe and efficient way. For all your arborist tree service needs in Victoria and beyond, give Advantage Tree Care a call.
To earn an ISA Certified Arborist credential, you must be trained and knowledgeable in a variety of aspects of arboriculture. ISA Certified Arborists must also adhere to the Code of Ethics that strengthens the credibility and reliability of the workforce.
To be eligible for the ISA Certified Arborist exam, you must have one or both of the following:
An ISA certification illustrates that an arborist is knowledgeable about a variety of topics and arboriculture. With the certification, they can treat trees for diseases and pests and oversee storm and emergency removal. Trained to be safe and follow a code of ethics, ISA certified arborist provides high-quality care that best suits your yard.
Looking for a qualified Arborist in Victoria, Saanich, Sidney, or Langford? Give ATC a call. We’re here to help. Call, email, or message us and we’ll get right back to you.
Learn more about tree services offered by Advantage Tree Care
If you’re thinking about removing a tree, the first question you probably have is “how much does it cost to remove a tree?”
The cost of tree removal can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size and location of the tree, as well as the complexity of the job. In Victoria BC you should anticipate paying between $850 and $4,000 for tree removal services and in some circumstances you could be looking at paying significantly over $4,000.
Generally speaking, very small trees can be removed for a few hundred dollars, while larger trees may cost several thousand dollars to remove.
The most important factor after the size of a tree, in determining the cost of tree removal is access.
All these factors play into the cost associated with tree removal.
Corners should not be cut when removing a tree. As a result, it is important to get a quote from a qualified tree removal service before having any work done.
In short, these are the factors that we use to determine the costs of a tree removal project
Advantage Tree Care provides a wide range of tree services for residential and commercial clients throughout Greater Victoria. We work with all tree removal projects and sizes, from entire site clearance operations through to individual and complex tree removals, please contact us to discuss your tree removal requirements.
Did you know that the proper care and maintenance of your trees is essential to their health and longevity?
Not only will your trees live longer, but they will also add value to your property, help improve air quality, and support the natural environment around them too.
Whether you’re a professional arborist, or a homeowner just wanting to tend to the trees in your yard, it’s important to know some best practices when it comes to tree care.
When you understand what trees need in order to grow, it makes it easier to know how to approach tree care. Trees need 4 core elements in order to thrive; Sunlight, water, nutrients, and air (carbon dioxide).
Here are five tips that can help you keep your trees healthy, strong, and looking their best.
Water your trees during dry periods, and summer months. Water your tree regularly, making sure to give it at least an inch of water per week. The best time to water is in the morning or evening, so the roots have a chance to absorb most of the water.
Mulch around the base of your trees to retain moisture and protect from weeds. The second advantage of mulch is to protect your trees from extreme weather conditions, pests and diseases.
It is one of the best ways to fertilize a young tree by providing slow-release nutrition that leaches down to the roots below with rain. Fertilizing in springtime is great to provide a boost of nutrients for the growing season.
Depending on the location, species and age of your tree it can be advantageous to have a regular pruning regime to promote good air flow and to reduce potential structural failures. Fruit tree pruning is an art in its own right, so if you don’t have the confidence to take care of your own fruit trees best to reach out to a tree service company for assistance.
Pro tip -Never remove more than 25% of the tree’s foliage at one time.
See related: What are the main advantages of tree pruning
Watch for signs of pests or diseases and take action early and use organic pesticides or insecticides where necessary. Be mindful of what kinds of fertilizers and chemicals you use near your trees. Seek advice from an Arborist who knows about tree biology and tree disease, and then treat them accordingly.
Check for damage after storms or heavy snow and take corrective action as needed. Inspect your trees for broken branches or limbs, and anything that could become a hazard.
Lighting storms? Yes, it’s common that trees get struck by lightning. A bolt of lightning direct on the tree can weaken its core making it more susceptible to damage from future windstorms. A thorough tree inspection and diagnostics can help determine the health of your tree and risk level after a lightning strike.
If you are planting trees or transplanting, one of the most important things you can do is make sure they have plenty of room to grow. Overcrowding can stunt a tree’s growth and even cause it to die.
If you’re not sure what to do, or how to handle a specific tree, consult with the Advantage Tree Care team your local arborists in Victoria BC. Message or call us, we look forward to hearing from you.
When it comes to the tree care and the tree service industry, there are a few important facts to check out before hiring a company to do any tree work on your property. Here is a quick breakdown on our top three facts to get answered when looking to hire a tree service company.
Check to see if the tree service company is certified through the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and sufficiently qualified to perform the work at hand. Checking this information will help give you confidence that you are employing a professional firm that will carry out the tree care to the relevant quality standards, whilst maintaining a safe working environment. ISA Certification numbers can be obtained before works.
Most tree service companies you’ll find will be fully insured but it’s always a good practice to double check their paper work for the correct coverage and that it is up to date. Please feel free to contact us for further details.
The experience of the tree service company is important for both the safety of your property and general public and the workers themselves. It is also important when it comes to the ongoing health, safety and aesthetics of your trees. Unless you have got a personal recommendation it is worth spending some time exploring the company website and asking around for references. You want to ensure that you are in safe, professional hands.
With Advantage Tree Care you can rest assured that we meet all the requirements listed above. We’re a full service tree care company that offers a wide range of services to fit your every need. If you would like to talk with us to find out more or to ask for references give us a call today.
Advantage Tree Care is a tree service company operating in Victoria BC since 2008. ATC is comprised of a dedicated and growing team of experienced arborists who are passionate about the work they do.
