Trees
The City of Vaudreuil-Dorion places great importance on trees in its territory. Planting on both public and private property is encouraged through grants and other means. Without counting the public woodlots, the number of public trees in Vaudreuil-Dorion is estimated at over 9,500.
Number of trees required in residential areas
In residential areas, there must be at least one tree in the front or secondary front yard. An additional tree is required if the front lot line is 20 metres wide or more, and for each additional 10 metres. For example, for a single-family home whose front yard is 18 metres wide, only one tree is required. A front yard 22 metres wide would require two trees. Note that the width of the front lot line includes the driveway.
Fines for illegal tree felling
To ensure greater protection of natural environments and urban trees, the Quebec government has increased fines for illegal tree felling, as part of the Loi sur la fiscalité municipale et d'autres dispositions législatives (projet de loi n° 39, art. 5.10).
The new fines are applicable in all Quebec municipalities as of December 8, 2023.
The new fine ranges are as follows:
| Catégorie d’amende | Montants d’amende antérieurs | Nouveaux montants d’amende | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amende de base | 500 $ | 2 500 $ | |
| Abattage sur une superficie inférieure à un hectare | Amende minimale par arbre abattu | 100 $ | 500 $ |
| Amende maximale par arbre abattu | 200 $ | 1 000 $ | |
| Amende totale maximale | 5 000 $ | 15 000 $ |
Thus, for any tree felling without a permit, a landowner is liable to a basic fine of $2,500, to which is added $500 per tree felled and course fees of 25% of the total fine. For example, for the illegal felling of three trees on the same property, the owner would receive a fine of $5,000.
To obtain a permit and learn more about municipal regulations, apply online or contact the Permits and Inspections Division by e-mail or at 450 455-3371, ext. 2027.
When is tree felling permitted?
First of all, you must contact the Permits and Inspections Division, which will accept or reject your application for permission to fell a tree and will issue a permit if accepted.
Tree felling may be permitted in very specific cases:
- to enable construction of a structure or building authorized in accordance with urban planning by-laws, if it is proven that felling cannot be avoided;
- if the tree is dead, shows an irreversible decline or has an incurable disease, poses a danger to public health or safety, constitutes a major nuisance that cannot be remedied, causes damage to public or private property, or affects the growth and well-being of nearby trees;
- when required for the growth and operation of a woodlot for which a selective cutting plan has been filed with the City.
Normal inconveniences related to the presence of a tree, such as falling twigs, leaves, flowers or fruits, roots at the surface, insects or animals, shade, odours or the release of pollen, do not constitute a nuisance.
Planting
Since 2010, over 16,000 public trees have been planted by the Public Works Department. About 98% of homes in Vaudreuil-Dorion features at least one public tree in front of their property.
In 2020 and 2021, the Public Works Department planted more than 30 large trees, or trees with a diameter greater than 280 mm. This was the project selected by the population following a citizen’s vote, an initiative stemming from the wish to “encourage the participation of all in the well-being of all”, which is part of the Strategic Plan 2020-2025, entitled Habité par ma ville!. These trees will be monitored over the next few years to ensure their long-term survival.
Moreover, about 15% of the trees planted were conifers. In addition to promoting biodiversity, providing a wind shielding effect, and enhancing the City’s decor all year round, conifers are an important source of food and a nesting place for birds.
Budget permitting, it is expected that 600 additional trees will be planted every year to strengthen the canopy throughout the territory.
Grants for tree planting
Vaudreuil-Dorion residents can receive grants for tree planting. Ask about conditions before you purchase your tree.
Planting in the municipal right-of-way
Each year, the City plants trees within the municipal right-of-way in targeted neighbourhoods. If a tree is planted in front of your property, a door hanger will be distributed to provide you information about it.
Benefits of urban trees
Trees in urban areas provide many tangible benefits. Here are just a few:
Environment
- They act as a heat sink.
- They capture and filter pollutants.
- They mitigate extreme weather conditions (water runoff, wind).
Health and quality of life
- They give your home some privacy.
- They're beautiful to look at.
- They reduce stress and illness.
Economy
- They increase your property value.
- They reduce the need for air-conditioning.