Associated with the page Gardens and trees Natural environments and biodiversity
Do you have your certificate of authorization?
A certificate of authorization is required before felling a tree on private property. In most cases, every tree felled has to be replaced.
Felling without a certificate can result in a minimum fine of $1,000.
Steps to take in the event of a tree posing an immediate danger
To report a tree (private or public) that poses an immediate danger, contact Services Brossard.
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.
[See the complete list of slaughter criteria (REG-362, article 182)].
Not considered a nuisance:
- Falling leaves, flowers or fruit
- Presence of insects or animals
- Lack of light or obstructed view
- Sap or pollen flow
Criteria determining the obligation to obtain a certificate
A certificate is required if :
- The trunk measures 10 cm or more in diameter at 1.30 m from the ground.
- The tree is an ash, whatever its size.
Exceptions:
- No certificate required for felling a cedar hedge(Thuya spp.).
- 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.
Certificate request
Required documents
To avoid delays, make sure you provide all the necessary documents:
| Document | Required for |
| Tree photos | All requests |
| Professional report | Diseased or dangerous trees |
| Letter from the syndicat de copropriété | Land in co-ownership |
| Deforestation plan | Protected woodland and metropolitan forest corridor |
Application submission
Option A: Online
Option B: In person
- Print and complete the form.
- Come to the urban planning counter at Brossard City Hall (2001, boul. de Rome).
Processing your request
- Maximum time: 60 working days (if the file is complete).
- An inspector could visit to confirm the information.
- If accepted, the certificate is valid for 3 months and must be visibly displayed during the work.
- Felled trees must be replaced within 12 months.
Tree felling regulations and penalties
Preserving the urban canopy is a priority. The provincial Act respecting land use planning and development (LAU) provides for stiffer penalties for tree felling.
[See section 233.1 of the UFA for more details].
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.