The Town of Whitby conducts tree inspections in response to potential hazards or inquiries from residents.
Inspections help identify necessary maintenance on Town-owned trees located on streets, parks, and open spaces. If you notice a tree-related issue, see below for how you can report it or request maintenance.
We provide a variety of services to maintain and care for Town trees, including pruning, tree removal, stump removal and replanting.
Use the sections below to learn more about our maintenance programs and how we manage Whitby’s urban forest.
Report a Town Tree Issue |
If you notice an issue with a Town-owned tree on a street, in a park, or other public space, you can let us know. Below are some common examples of when residents contact us:
Report a Tree IssuePlease use our online form below to submit a non-urgent service request. For urgent hazards posing an immediate risk to public safety, please call 905-668-3437 directly. (Emergency situations should be reported by phone, as online requests are monitored during regular business hours.) |
Tree Pruning |
As part of our commitment to maintaining a healthy urban forest, Town arborists regularly prune trees located on municipal property. Pruning is essential for enhancing tree health, preventing hazards and supporting a safe community for all. Our forestry team follows industry best practices, with a strong focus on community safety, to ensure optimal care and longevity of our trees by:
Street trees are inspected and pruned every five-seven years through our Winter Block Pruning Program to ensure consistent care across neighbourhoods. Important: If a tree is within 3 meters of hydro wires, please contact Elexicon Energy to request pruning. |
Proactive Winter Block Pruning Program Schedule |
Each winter, the Town conducts seasonal pruning of residential street trees as part of our ongoing tree care program. Through the rotational Block Pruning Program, trees are proactively pruned on a on a 5–7 year cycle. This program aims to support the following objectives: ✔ Supports long-term tree health and structure ✔ Removes dead, dying or hazardous branches ✔ Improves visibility for pedestrians and drivers ✔ Provides clearance from infrastructure such as streetlights, driveways, and sidewalks Report a Tree IssueIf your street isn’t listed but you’re concerned about a Town-owned tree, please use our online form, to report the issue or contact us by phone. For emergency hazards, please call 905-668-3437 directly, as the online form is only monitored during regular business hours. |
Tree Removal |
Tree removal is considered a last resort and only happens when absolutely necessary, usually due to safety concerns, poor tree health, or structural issues that pose a risk to people or property. Trees may be removed for reasons such as:
Each tree removal due to health concerns is carefully evaluated by an ISA Certified Arborist on Town staff to ensure it is the most appropriate course of action for public safety and the long-term health of the urban forest. Where possible, the Town aims to plant more trees than are removed to support a growing and resilient tree urban forest. If you see a tree that looks damaged or unsafe, please report it to the Town so we can inspect it and take any needed action. |
Stump Removal |
After a tree is removed from a street or park, the remaining stump will be removed at a later date. To help us complete this work safely and efficiently, please ensure the area is clear of any tree wells, plantings, bricks, stones, or other obstructions placed around the base of the stump. Stump removal is completed separately from tree removal and requires locates to identify any underground infrastructure. |
Replanting |
Once the stump is removed, the site will be assessed to determine if there is enough space to replant a tree. While the goal is to replace the site with a new tree, not all locations will be suitable due to space limitations and required clearances from infrastructure. Learn more about our tree planting program on our Tree planting page. |
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