Tree Regulations

Who maintains trees on City property?

The City of Windsor, Forestry Department maintains all trees on City-owned right-of-ways and parkland. Forestry does not trim trees in alleys. Only dead and/or dangerous trees are removed by the City. 

Property boundaries vary from area to area. Some street right-of-ways are 15 metres (49 feet), some 20 metres (65.6 feet) and others are 30 metres (98 feet). It depends on the street. Forestry maintains trees whose trunks lie completely or partially on City property. However, there are trees in East Riverside that are maintained by Parks & Facilities, even though they are just outside the City right-of-way. These trees were planted by and maintained by the old Town of Riverside and were inherited by the City of Windsor.

What by-laws are in place regarding tree planting?

By-law 135-2004 both restricts the planting of certain trees on city right-of-ways and protects trees on all City property (see "Trees on Highways" on By-laws Online). Under this by-law, no one can plant any Poplar species, Willow species, Thorney Honey Locust or Manitoba Maple on city right-of-ways. It would be best to contact the Forestry Department using 311 for approval of any other species, as some low-growing trees may also not be acceptable from a safety point of view. 

This by-law also protects trees on city property. Fines range from $1,000 to $100,000, depending on the situation.

How can I request maintenance for a City tree?

If you believe the City tree on your lot is in need of maintenance services, please call 311 to request an inspection or Tree Services. Residents are not permitted to undertake any treatment on City-owned trees.