Tree Removal and Tree Services in Calgary. In collaboration with a local expert.

Trees in Calgary deal with conditions that are very different from many other parts of Canada. Popular species such as Colorado spruce, Manitoba maple, elm and poplar all respond differently to long winters strong winds and dry weather. Elm trees are protected under Alberta's Dutch Elm Disease regulations so pruning or removing one at the wrong time can result in fines. Spruce trees also tend to struggle with a hard time in Calgary’s heavy clay soil, and weaker roots make them more susceptible to strong windstorms. A local arborist with experience knows what to look for and will be able to tell you if a tree needs to be removed or just needs regular attention.

For most homeowners, the answer is no. As usual, trees on private residential property can be removed without a permit unless they are protected species such as some elms or they are in an environmentally sensitive area. Trees on City of Calgary property, including the boulevard trees outside your home are different and require City of Calgary approval before they can be removed or heavily pruned. If a tree has grown in a property line, both neighbours are typically required to agree before any work is performed. A local arborist can confirm the rules for your property and take responsibility for any paperwork if required.

Sometimes the warning signs are easy to see and sometimes they are not. Dead branches near the top of the tree mushrooms or fungal growth around the base a tree that has begun to lean more than it used to cracks running through the trunk roots damaged during construction and large branches hanging over a roof driveway or power lines can all point to a serious problem. If you see any of these signs it is worth arranging an inspection before the next windstorm arrives. Time often turns a planned removal into an emergency job that costs more.

Tree removal is a dangerous task, especially in Calgary residential areas where homes, fences, garages and power lines are often in nearby areas. If you hire an uninsured / unlicensed crew and they damage your property by hitting a utility line, you must be pay for the loss by yourself. WCB provides coverage for professional arborists with liability insurance who use the right equipment for confined spaces, know how to work safely around hazardous trees, and follow City of Calgary requirements. All of our contractors in our network are vetted before they are matched with a project.

Emergency tree removal is throughout the year, but planned work is easier to plan at certain times. Late fall and winter usually turn out to be the most suitable options. The ground is frozen or firm and there are fewer leaves to clean up. Another popular time is early spring before new growth appears, especially if the job is involving stump grinding. Some summer tree removals are compulsory when a tree becomes unsafe, but softer ground can leave more damage behind. If your tree is stable waiting until the quieter season can provide you with more appointment options and better pricing.

Usually, after the tree is removed, you can decide what happens next. Many homeowners keep the larger logs for firewood while others will ask that branches be cut down into mulch for garden beds. If you want a clean yard the crew generally removes all of it. Stump grinding is typically priced separately because it uses different equipment than tree removal. Such options must always be discussed before work starts so you know exactly what is supposed to be included in the final price.