Brampton residents asked to report damaged trees after devastating storm

Brampton city staff are continuing cleanup and restoration efforts following the massive storm on Saturday (May 21) which caused major damage across the region and at least 10 deaths.

In a recent statement, the city says staff are currently attending all sites in Brampton where damage occurred on city-owned trees to make the affected areas safe.

“Tree debris may be present on boulevards and in parks and open spaces over the next several weeks as immediate hazards are being addressed,” according to the city.

While residents are not authorized to remove or damage any city-owned trees, residents are being urged to report any damage to city-owned trees (such as fallen tree branches, debris, or trees that have entirely fallen over) at 311 Brampton, on the 311 mobile app, or by calling 311.

If the removal of a city-owned tree is requested, the tree is inspected by forestry staff approximately 90 days from the initial request, and any necessary work is scheduled after the inspection.

Property owners can remove privately owned trees on their property, but may require a permit in some situations: For trees located within two metres of an occupied building, trees with a diameter of less than 30 centimeters, measured from 1.37 metres from the ground, or if injury to a tree is required for emergency work.

As residents get rid of their tree trimmings and branches, the city is reminding them about proper yard waste collection:

• Yard waste containers must be labelled, open, rigid, and reusable. If you receive cart collection, you can use your old blue or grey box for your yard waste.
• Securely tie brush in bundles up to 1.2 m (4 ft) long and 76 cm (30 in) wide. Brush bundles cannot weigh more than 20 kg (44 lb). Brush and tree trimmings must be 10 cm (4 in) or less in diameter to be collected from the curb.
• Only brown Kraft paper bags containing yard waste are collected. Plastic bags are not acceptable.
• A filled yard waste bag or container must weigh less than 20 kg (44 lbs) to be collected.
• Leave at least 1 m (3 ft) of clear space between your yard waste and your waste carts.

Residential yard waste that does not fit within these guidelines is accepted year-round (for a fee) at Peel Community Recycling Centres (CRCs).