Navigating Calgary's Tree Map: How to Identify If Your Tree is City-Owned or Private
Welcome back to the Apex Tree Service blog! Today, we're going to delve into an important aspect of tree care in Calgary - understanding whether a tree on or near your property is owned by the City of Calgary or if it's private. This is crucial not only for maintenance and care responsibilities but also for compliance with local bylaws. Let's explore how the City of Calgary's tree map works and how you can use it to your advantage. https://maps.calgary.ca/TreeSchedule/
Understanding the City of Calgary's Tree Map
What is the Tree Map?
Calgary's tree map is an interactive online tool designed to help residents and tree care professionals like us at Apex Tree Service identify and manage trees on public lands. It's part of the City's broader initiative to protect and expand Calgary's urban forest.
How Does It Work?
- Access the Map:
Start by visiting the [City of Calgary's website](https://www.calgary.ca/) and navigating to the Urban Forestry section where you'll find the tree map.
- Search Your Address:
Use the search function to enter your address, which will zoom the map to your area, displaying nearby trees.
- Locate Trees:
The map will show icons representing trees, with different colors or symbols indicating whether they are city-owned, maintained by the City, or other relevant details like species or size.
- Detailed Information:
Clicking on a tree icon will reveal more information, including the species, estimated value, and maintenance history if applicable.
Identifying if Your Tree is City-Owned or Private
Here's how you can determine the ownership of a tree:
1. Use the Tree Map:
- Zoom In: Look for trees marked on your property or very close to it. City-owned trees are typically within the public right-of-way, like boulevards or park spaces.
- Check Labels: Trees marked explicitly as "City of Calgary" or similar are under city jurisdiction.
2. Physical Indicators:
- Location: City trees are usually planted on the strip between the sidewalk and the street, in parks, or in other public areas.
- Signage or Tags: Sometimes, city trees might have tags or signs indicating they belong to the municipality.
3. Real Property Report (RPR):
- If you're still unsure, your property's RPR can help define where your property ends and public land begins, clarifying tree ownership.
4. Contact 311:
- If the tree map doesn't provide a clear answer, or if you're dealing with a complex situation, calling 311 is the next step. The City can confirm tree ownership and provide guidance on maintenance responsibilities.
Why Does This Matter?
- Maintenance Responsibilities:
Knowing who owns a tree dictates who is responsible for its care. City trees are maintained by Calgary Parks, but you cannot alter or remove them without permission.
-Legal and Safety Issues:
Unauthorized work on city trees can result in fines. Moreover, understanding ownership helps in managing safety risks, especially if a tree poses a hazard.
- Environmental Impact:
Proper care of both public and private trees contributes to a healthier urban forest, benefiting Calgary's environment.
Apex Tree Service: Your Ally in Tree Care
At Apex Tree Service, we understand the nuances of working with both city-owned and private trees. We can assist in:
Tree Assessments:
Before any work begins, we can help identify tree ownership.
- Permit Navigation:
We're familiar with the processes for obtaining city permissions for work on public trees.
- Comprehensive Care:
Whether it's pruning, removal, or treatment, we ensure compliance with local regulations.
We encourage you to explore the City of Calgary's tree map as a first step in understanding your urban forest. If you have any doubts or need professional tree services, don't hesitate to call us at (587) 968-8733. Together, let's keep Calgary's trees thriving, safe, and beautiful.
Remember, trees are not just part of our landscape; they're vital to our community's health and heritage. Let's work together to care for them properly.
