Some tree removals and property projects require more than a contractor's estimate. An arborist report documents the tree, its condition and the professional opinion supporting a recommendation or permit application.
When an arborist report may be needed
- Municipal tree-removal permit applications
- Hazardous, dead or declining trees where documentation is required
- Construction or development near protected trees
- Boundary or property-related tree concerns
- Written documentation for a specific tree condition
London and St. Thomas permits
London's Tree Protection By-law regulates distinctive private trees 50 cm DBH or greater within the Urban Growth Boundary and trees of any size in Tree Protection Areas. St. Thomas' private tree rules apply to trees over 30 cm DBH, subject to exemptions and other provisions. Requirements depend on the property, tree and reason for the proposed work.
Qualified assessment
Every report is prepared by Coleson Jefferies, ISA Certified Arborist ON-2573A, and identifies the tree, its observed condition and a recommendation suited to the assignment.
Also see our local tree permit guide.
Who prepares the report
Reports are prepared by Coleson Jefferies, ISA Certified Arborist ON-2573A. An ISA certification means the arborist has passed the International Society of Arboriculture's exam and keeps up continuing education in tree biology, risk and care.
What a report covers
- Tree identification: species, size (diameter at breast height) and location on the property
- Observed condition: health, defects, decay and structural concerns
- Risk to people and property where relevant
- A recommendation, such as retain, prune, monitor or remove, with the reasons behind it
- Photos of the tree and any defects
How it works
- Call or send a quote request with the address and what the report is for.
- Our arborist inspects the tree on site.
- You receive the written report for your permit application, builder or insurer.
- If removal is approved, we can quote and carry out the work.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an arborist report to remove a tree in London?
Sometimes. It depends on the tree's size, where it is and the permit type. Tree Protection Area applications may require an arborist or forester report. Our permit guide explains when.
Who writes your arborist reports?
Our reports are prepared by Coleson Jefferies, ISA Certified Arborist ON-2573A.
Can you submit the permit application for me?
Yes. We can prepare the arborist report and help you with the municipal application.
Serving homeowners and businesses across London, Ontario. See our London tree service page for areas we cover, recent London jobs and permit information.