Cartierville felling permit

Applying for a Private Tree Cutting Permit

Updated February 2, 2024 Related to Trees

Do you need to cut down a tree on your property? In Montreal, a tree cutting permit (also known as an authorization certificate) is required. Here's how to obtain one.

This procedure applies to all trees, except ash trees. If you want to cut down an ash tree, consult the appropriate procedure.

You need to obtain a cutting permit for:

• Cutting down a tree with a trunk diameter equal to or greater than 10 cm, measured at 1.4 m from the ground, or at least 15 cm in diameter measured at 15 cm from the ground
• Raising the ground level under its canopy by more than 20 cm
• Cutting 40% or more of its branches
• Cutting 40% or more of its roots
• Carrying out any other action that may harm its survival (e.g., covering the base of the tree with impermeable material).

Trunk DiameterTo calculate the trunk diameter before applying for your permit:

• Use a measuring tape
• Measure the circumference of the trunk in cm
• Divide this measurement by 3.14: you will get the diameter in cm. Example: if the trunk circumference measures 35 cm, the diameter is: 35/3.14 = 11 cm Another way is to use a rigid measuring tape and hold it horizontally against the tree to measure the width (or thickness) of the trunk. This will give you the approximate diameter.

Reasons for CuttingYou may have the right to cut down a tree in the following cases. You must have obtained the cutting permit before proceeding.

• The tree is dead;
• It is in a state of irreversible decline;
• It is causing serious damage to property;
• It is dangerous to people's safety;
• It risks spreading a disease or invasive exotic species;
• It is of the Nerprun species (Rhamnus);
• It is within the area of a future construction or within 3 meters of this area;
• It is within the area intended for the installation of a pool that cannot be located elsewhere on the property;
• It hinders the development of access to a building or front yard parking that cannot be located elsewhere on the property. For the last 3 reasons, a permit application must be accepted in advance.

RestrictionsYou cannot cut down a tree:

• Because it loses flowers, leaves, sap, or twigs;
• Because it produces pollen, sap, shelters animals or insects, or provides shade;
• Because its roots are visible on the surface of the soil. You also cannot prune or cut down a tree, cut or move a shrub or plant cultivated by the City of Montreal on public land, i.e., in the strip of land between the street edge, or sidewalk, and the boundary of your property.

Replacement of a Felled TreeYou must replace the felled tree within 12 months of felling it. The new tree must have:

• A trunk diameter of at least 3 cm, measured at 1.4 m from the ground;
• A total height of 3 m or more.

Fee$130 per request and per lot, regardless of the number of trees to be cut down on the property. Taxes are included.

Emerald Ash Borer ControlThe application for a permit to cut down an ash tree on private property is free.

Required DocumentsCopy of the location certificate serving as a plan or a drawn plan to indicate the location of the trees to be cut down (number each tree to be cut down and note its diameter and species, if known, on the document). Also include the name and signature of all owners listed in the notarial deed. If applicable: Power of attorney authorizing you to act on behalf of the owner Authorization letter from each co-owner, resolution of the condominium association, or proof of the composition of the condominium board of directors and a letter of authorization from each of its members. To apply for a subsidy for Ash trees: Link to the application page