Even though trees add beauty to your home, there comes a time when you need to remove one or multiple trees from your yard due to health, safety or even aesthetics.
But did you know that not every time you apply for a permit, you get one? Not all applications are approved; that is why your reason needs to meet all the applicable review factors and standards for you to remove a tree.
One should check with their local authority to find out which trees need permits and which do not. In most cases, if a tree is healthy, access is a must-have. This means that you will need to apply for it and pay the facility fee.
How to Apply for a Tree Removal Permit
Prior to tree removal, you need to obtain a permit. How do you do that? It is important to note that you’re required to pay for that application, whether for single or multiple trees.
First, you have to obtain and fill an application form. Here are some of the inclusions of the form:
- Primary contact for the entire process
- You’ll need to mention the tree kind you need to be removed. This includes the tree species name of the same.
- Tree diameter and height.
- A solid reason for removing the tree. If you need to remove several of them you need to note that too. This might be dying, diseased, dangerous, among other things.
In some cases, you are required to draw a well-labeled diagram of your property. This illustrates the entire layout and the location to which the trees you need to cut is situated.
Do I Need a Permit When Carrying Out Maintenance Pruning?
When pruning, you need not acquire any permit. This is because even trees need general maintenance to stay in shape and beautiful. However, it is advised not to prune more than 3 quarters of your tree since it may take an extended period to normal.
Find yourself the best arborist to get the job done right for you. Tree Pruning is an important aspect of the tree’s health because you are removing either dead or broken branches.
If there is a branch that has crossed over the neighbor’s house, you may want to consult them before removing it, or it may cause damages which you will be personally held liable for.
Reasons for Removing a Tree
As aforementioned, each and everyone has their reasons to remove a tree from their property. Some of these reasons include:
- Diseases or insect infestation. As we may all know, this is one of the leading causes of trees death.
- Trees leaning in a dangerous direction. This might be a life-threatening situation because the tree might be leaning towards a house or a children’s play area.
- Cracks on the main trunk. Whenever there is a storm or high winds, the tree might fall over and damage the near structure or properties.
- Extra-large trees. This is also a dangerous situation because the tree roots may damage the foundation of your building.
Furthermore, there are some signs and symptoms that you should look out for if you want to remove a tree. Some of these include:
- Decaying and production of fungi.
- Trunk cracks and peeling bark.
- Dead hanging branches may be seen on the upper crown of the tree.
- Cavities may be observed on the trunk.
If you observe one of the symptoms above, the time has come to remove the tree.
Average Cost of a Tree Removal
Cutting down some trees from your property requires a permit; well, this depends on the local area regulations. In most cases, the average permit cost is almost the same for most cities; other relatable factors may cause the prices’ hike.
Generally, the average tree removal cost is $1,300; however, if you need to cut down several trees, this will vary depending on the reason and the species you need to remove.
This applies to healthy trees, but if the tree pauses safety threat, diseased or dead, there will be no cost, but you will need a permit, or else you will be penalized.
Know the Rules before You Cut Down a Tree
Trees are an important treasure to most communities. Some of these species are rare and are mostly protected by the city rules. Apart from the permit, you need to know other regulations that govern tree removal in your area. This mainly applies to urban trees since, unlike forest trees, they have a shorter lifespan.
This is due to compacted soils, air pollution, and insufficient root space, just but a few. There is a cost bid for cutting and replacing these trees. For example, in London, trees are protected by “the forest city” by-laws. These laws help to protect and maintain the beauty of their forests. Therefore, it is very important to know the rules governing your city and follow them to the core.
Is a Site Plan Important for Tree Removal Permit?
The main question is, what value does a site plan has when acquiring a tree removal permit? Having a well-created site plan allows the authorities to regulate tree removal in your locality to see the impact of cutting down that tree.
This is made easier since a site plan shows tree location and whatever property surrounding it. Depending on the details you provide, the list may include landscape features, driveway, permanent structures, and overhead cables, among others.
A site plan does not guarantee that the permit you’re seeking will be granted, but if it is well structured with all the necessities to support your reasons, there are higher chances you will win it.
Bottom line<h4
In most areas, for one to remove a tree from their property, you’ll need to obtain a permit from your local authorities. Not all permits requests are granted since it will depend on the reasons you have at hand. If your permit request is turned down at first, you can re-appeal.
Some of the reliable tree service companies obtain a permit for their customers; however, they may charge you. It is also important to check your local area’s rules before you decide to remove a tree from your backyard.
