City of Toronto Cleaning up Tree Debris Caused by Ice Storm
By Lucas on Jan 03, 2014
Randy Risling / Toronto Star
If you were around the Greater Toronto Area for the holidays, we’re sure the ice storm affected you in one way or another, whether you were one of the unlucky ones who lost power for days, a giant tree fell and blocked your driveway, or it was just super difficult to visit family.
Well, if fallen trees are still inconveniencing you or the sight of them is just bringing you down, don’t worry, the City of Toronto has announced that the cleanup has commenced! The bad news is that the damage is so extensive that the cleanup is expected to take about eight weeks to complete.
There will be 125 three-person crews comprised of City staff and contractors focusing on clearing roadsides, while 120 two-person forestry crews dispose of hanging branches threatening power lines and dangling over walking areas.
"We are relieved to be moving from an emergency phase to one of restoring people's ability to move around their neighbourhoods," said Deputy Mayor Norm Kelly (Ward 40 Scarborough Agincourt). "As crews are released from assisting with hydro, they are being reassigned to making sure that roads are open and debris is collected."
As for your own property, it might be up to you to dispose of the tree debris. If you bundle all smaller branches (less than six inches in diameter) and put them at the curb, the City will collect them. The City advises that you stack the branches neatly without blocking sidewalks or roads, and make sure that the butt ends point towards the road.
The City will NOT be collecting any branches larger than six inches in diameter that have fallen from private trees on private property. You have to get a contractor to come and safely remove the larger branches. No permit is required to remove hazardous downed branches, but the City states that trees can be saved with proper removal. A professional contractor is highly recommended.
Remember, be safe and patient. The cleanup of tree debris has just begun and there are hundreds of people on the job!
