Skip to main content
The consultation of English-language content is governed by the Charter of the French Language and its regulations. Please note that the content on this site is automatically translated and may not always be perfectly accurate.

Tree felling

This page provides information on slaughter conditions, the procedure for obtaining a certificate, and the regulations in effect in Brossard.

Do you have your certificate of authorization?

A certificate of authorization is required before felling a tree on private property.

In Brossard, a tree is defined as :

  • Woody plant reaching at least five (5) meters in height at maturity AND
  • Has a single trunk whose branches only appear at a certain height above the ground.

Felling without a certificate can result in a minimum fine of $1,000.


Conditions for tree removal in Brossard

Before submitting an application, make sure that felling is the only possible option. Urban trees contribute to air quality, temperature regulation and the well-being of citizens.

Felling is authorized if :

  • The tree is dead.
  • He has an incurable disease (professional report required).
  • It prevents authorized work from being carried out.
  • The tree is dangerous and felling is the only possible corrective action (professional report required).
  • The tree is a nuisance.
  • The tree is a prohibited species.

In the case of a diseased or dangerous tree, the required report must be signed by a forestry engineer, an arborist certified by a recognized organization (e.g. International Society of Arboriculture) or a horticulturist.

Not considered a nuisance:

  • Falling leaves, flowers or fruit
  • Presence of insects or animals
  • Lack of light or obstructed view
  • Sap or pollen flow

Replacing felled trees

Before purchasing a tree, we invite you to send us information on the species you wish to plant so that we can confirm that it will be accepted.


Submit a request

Please submit your request via the online platform or in person at Hôtel de ville.

DocumentRequired for
Tree photosAll requests
Professional reportDiseased or dangerous trees
Letter from the syndicat de copropriétéLand in co-ownership
Deforestation planProtected woodland and metropolitan forest corridor
Planting plans for replacement treesBuildings with 4 or more units AND
Non-residential building

Explanatory leaflets

To report a tree (private or public) that poses an immediate danger, contact Services Brossard.

In the event of an emergency (e.g. tree fall after bad weather), felling may be carried out before the certificate is obtained, but an application must be submitted within 7 days.


Demystifying preconceived notions about urban trees

Myth: Roots can break the foundation of a house.
Fact: Roots can’t survive in concrete. They seek out moisture and can only infiltrate pipes that are already cracked.

Myth: Roots attracted by pipes can perforate them.
Fact: Roots don’t pierce pipes, but take advantage of cracks caused by wear or freeze/thaw cycles.

Myth: Topping is a good maintenance technique.
Fact: Topping weakens trees, makes them vulnerable to disease and increases maintenance costs.


Topping: a banned practice in Brossard

Topping involves cutting off the top of a tree to reduce its height. This technique seriously damages the health of the trees.

Topping can result in a minimum fine of $300 per tree.

Adverse effects :

  • Fragility of branches
  • Vulnerability to pests and diseases
  • Rot on exposed wood
  • Reduction in property value
  • Increased maintenance costs

Topping is prohibited in Brossard. Choose appropriate pruning techniques to preserve the health of your trees.

Was this page helpful?

Parking permitted