Trees on private property are an important part of Sarnia’s urban forest. They contribute to canopy cover and provide many environmental, economic, and health benefits across the community.

The City does not maintain trees on private property. These trees are not regulated under the Tree Canopy Protection & Enhancement Policy, nor the Protection of City Trees By-Law 34.

Property owners are responsible for the care and maintenance of trees on their land. You do not need a permit to remove a tree on your private property.

However,  most trees located at the front of a property along the street are on the City-owned boulevard. Do not remove, prune, or damage trees on City property. If you have a concern with a City-owned boulevard tree visit our Tree Concerns Page.

Caring for Your Trees

You can help keep trees on your property healthy by:

  • Watering deeply during dry periods, especially in summer.
  • Avoiding damage to the trunk when mowing or trimming.
  • Keeping soil and mulch away from the base of the trunk and not piled up around it.
  • Avoiding cutting roots or attaching items to the tree.

Planting New Trees

Planting new trees on your property is a great way to support the urban forest.

When planting a new tree:

  • Choose a location with enough space for the tree to grow
  • Ensure the location is on private property and not the city boulevard
  • Consider nearby buildings, utilities, and overhead wires; contact Ontario One Call before you dig to identify any underground utilities
  • Select a tree species suited to your site conditions

Consult the drop-down below for a full tree-planting guide.

Tree-planting guide

  1. Dig Your Hole: The hole you dig should be two to three times wider than the container. Planting a tree too deep or too shallow can be detrimental to the tree’s health. Always plant your tree so the root collar (the area where a tree’s roots transition into its trunk) is level with the soil around it.
  2. Plant Your Tree: If the roots in the container appear to be ­tightly wrapped or excessively pot bound, gently loosen the roots to reduce the chance of roots ­looping around the trunk and interfering with growth (girdling). Always plant your tree so the root collar is level with the soil around it. Back fill your hole with the soil you removed. There is no need to add materials or fertilizer to your soil. ­Compact the soil in the hole as you plant your tree. Compacting the soil as you fill in the hole will reduce air ­pockets. ­Water your tree immediately after ­planting to remove the last of the air pockets.
  3. Mulch Your Tree: Mulch should be spread in a donut shape around the tree with a depth of no more than 20cm. Leave a space between the mulch and the trunk of the tree. Mulch holds ­moisture in the soil reducing evaporation and provides all the nutrients your tree needs.
  4. Water Your Tree: In the first couple of years watering your tree is important for your trees survival. A long, deep watering is ideal for your tree in periods of drought or extreme heat. Turn your hose to a trickle and place it at the base of the tree for 10 to 15 minutes, or use a tree watering bag.

Private Property Tree Concerns

If you have a concern with a tree on private property, visit our Tree Concerns Page for more information.