Between pruning programs trees are maintained to remove broken branches or to correct defects reported by residents or noted by City staff. Some species can only be pruned at certain times of years. For example, elms, in accordance with the Dutch elm disease bylaw , can only be pruned from October 1st to March 31st. From April 1st other species such as ash, maple and birch are pruned. Parking and front access to houses may be temporarily restricted.
Crews try to minimize the period of inconvenience.
Branches cut during pruning are left on the boulevard and are picked up within a 24-hour period. The City does not top trees. The resulting growth is unappealing, broomlike. The large wounds do not seal off well, leading to hollow trunks and hazardous trees. Scheduling Homeowners wishing to check when pruning of boulevard trees in front of their property will be down - refer to Team Leader, who will report back to homeowner.