Common questions

Ladysmith Tree Removal works across an area covering four regulators, so the right answer depends on your address. The Town of Ladysmith's Bylaw No. 695 reaches public land only, while Regional District of Nanaimo Bylaw No. 500 requires a development permit across six areas — so we check your address first.

Does a permit apply to removing a tree in Ladysmith?

The Town of Ladysmith's Tree Cutting Regulation Bylaw, 1979, No. 695 applies to land set aside as a park, greenbelt or public area — not to private property. Development Permit Areas are the exception: DPA 8 requires a tree preservation plan under Guideline 4(k). We confirm your permit position before we issue a quote.

What about Chemainus?

Chemainus falls under the Municipality of North Cowichan, where tree cutting on private property is governed by Development Permit Areas rather than a tree bylaw. DPA-3 and DPA-4 fall inside a Development Permit Area with cutting restrictions, so we check with the North Cowichan planning department before booking.

And Cedar or Yellow Point?

Those fall under the Regional District of Nanaimo, where Bylaw No. 500 makes the removal of vegetation, including trees, a development permit matter across six areas covering Cedar and Yellow Point. The bylaw exempts trees deemed hazardous by a certified arborist or Registered Professional Forester that pose an imminent threat to buildings or life safety.

What does tree removal cost?

A small tree typically runs $400 to $800, a medium one $800 to $2,000 and a large one $1,500 to $4,000. The drop zone matters more than height. A tree with room to fall is an easier job than one we have to take apart in sections over a roof.

Is there a time of year to avoid?

Late March through mid-August is bird nesting season. The BC Wildlife Act makes it illegal to harm or destroy a bird, its egg, or the nest of specified birds, and the Migratory Bird Convention Act applies as well. We check for active nesting birds before booking work between late March and mid-August.

What happens to the wood?

We haul away chips and rounds by default. We can leave rounds stacked for firewood instead at no extra cost.

Can equipment get to a tree on a tight lot?

Often, with a smaller machine. Gate width, slope and how soft the ground is decide it more than the size of the tree does. Where nothing can reach, the tree comes down on ropes instead, which costs more in time and less in repairs to the ground.

Is a written quote fixed?

The price is fixed to the scope in it. A quote changes only if we find something on the day — decay opened up at the base, or a second tree added — and we price either one before we carry on. Either way, the new figure goes to you in writing.

What about a tree near a power line?

We call BC Hydro before setting our work plan for any tree near power lines. A tree within reach of a service drop is treated as a line job whether or not it looks close from the ground.

Is there a best time of year?

Winter suits removals — the ground is workable and deciduous crowns are open — but it is also storm season, so schedules move. We check trees for active nests before booking work between late March and mid-August under the BC Wildlife Act and the Migratory Bird Convention Act.