Permit for tree removal. Westmount CityTrees provide many services that enhance our human quality of life. Therefore, we cannot do without them. In recognizing these benefits, it is easy to understand the need to avoid cutting down any tree specimens as much as possible.
Like many other municipalities, the City of Westmount requires a permit to cut down trees over a certain size. Please see the following page for more information on tree removal in the City. We have also provided some helpful guidelines on this page to help you get a general overview of the permit application process. However, it is important that you refer to the official versions of the by-laws, which are available at the City Clerk's Office at Westmount City Hall. Various contact information is provided at the end of this text. In addition, the zoning by-law and the by-law concerning permits and certificates are of most concern to you in the case of a felling. These can be downloaded from the City of Westmount's website, but it is possible that other regulations or laws from other levels of government may apply to you. We recommend that you always check with the appropriate authorities for the best interpretation and to obtain complete and up-to-date information. |
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Certificate of authorization for tree removal
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It is necessary to obtain an authorization from the borough to cut down a tree on private property, unless it is a specimen of no more than 10 centimetres (3.93 inches) in diameter, measured at 1.3 metres (4.26 feet) from the ground. The analysis of your file will cost $55 and the certificate will cost $107 per tree. Please be advised that the uprooting of a tree, the removal of more than 40% of the root system, the covering of the latter by a 0.2 metre (0.65 foot) fill or any other means which results in the destruction of a tree are considered as felling.
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What are the acceptable reasons?
In the following cases, you should obtain permission to fell if an arborist certifies the condition of the plant in a report: When at least 50% of the crown of branches up to the entire specimen is dead, if it is irreversibly dying, if its condition is dangerous due to an irrevocable situation or as a result of a disease or because its structure is deficient. In addition, this will also be the case if it is at risk of spreading a disease or if it is an invasive species; however, you will have to replace the felled tree. Note that you are limited in the species allowed. A downloadable list is available on the City of Westmount website.
Other acceptable reasons are if the tree is located where a structure or retaining wall will be built in the near future or if the large plant is less than 3 meters away, if it is located in the area of a pool, accessory parking or access to a building, and this, in the front yard (and then no other location on the lot should be possible). Remember to apply for a building permit beforehand in these cases. In the event that a tree causes serious damage to a property, the City of Westmount may require you to submit a report signed by an engineer.
Your reasons for requesting a tree removal certificate must be justified in any way.
Other acceptable reasons are if the tree is located where a structure or retaining wall will be built in the near future or if the large plant is less than 3 meters away, if it is located in the area of a pool, accessory parking or access to a building, and this, in the front yard (and then no other location on the lot should be possible). Remember to apply for a building permit beforehand in these cases. In the event that a tree causes serious damage to a property, the City of Westmount may require you to submit a report signed by an engineer.
Your reasons for requesting a tree removal certificate must be justified in any way.
Preparation of documents for the certificate application
Several documents must accompany your application. First, you must include a copy of the certificate of location where all the trees to be cut down are located as well as clear, color photos of the specimens. You will also need to submit a report signed by a certified arborist (and his or her certificate or diploma) or by an AAPQ Landscape Architect. A signed report from an engineer is also required in some situations. In addition, when applicable, you will be required to submit a plan indicating the trees to be replaced, the method of protection of surrounding trees when necessary, a plan of the existing and proposed landscaping and an official estimate of the detailed cost without taxes produced by a professional for their intervention. Finally, a power of attorney letter is essential if you are not the owner and a letter from the condominium association authorizing the modifications concerned, if applicable. The Permits and Certificates By-law provides more detail on this point. Additional documentation may also be required if necessary.
How to submit your application
Permit applications can be completed and submitted online through the City of Westmount's website or at the Urban Planning Department. You will then receive follow-up communications by email. Once a Certificate of Approval is obtained, you have three months to complete the work or you will have to reapply.
Point of Service for permit applications in Westmount
Westmount City Hall can be reached at 514-989-5318 or legal@westmount.org.
The Urban Planning Department is located at 4333 Sherbrooke Street West, Westmount, Quebec H3Z 1E2.
You can also call 514-989-5219. There is also an online contact form on the City of Westmount website.
The Urban Planning Department is located at 4333 Sherbrooke Street West, Westmount, Quebec H3Z 1E2.
You can also call 514-989-5219. There is also an online contact form on the City of Westmount website.
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514-613-1117
514-613-1117