[CANUFNET] Tree roots in sewer lines

[Michael Richardson]

I think that you should read Julian Dunster's Trees and the Law in Canada
as a starting point.  Chapter 4: Trees as a Nuisance has a section on
roots and sewers/septic fields that is likely to be relevant to your
question.

Michael

> Good morning members,
>
> I'm interested in your thoughts on a matter we are dealing with here at
> the City of Kitchener. Our legal department is recommending we amend our
> City Tree By-law to create an exception which would allow people to cut
> roots of municipal trees, for the purpose of unblocking sewer laterals. We
> have fairly standard language that states no person is permitted to prune
> or remove any part of a City tree, and legal is arguing that people who
> clear roots from sewers are technically in violation of the by-law.
>
> Has anyone encountered this argument and how was it resolved?
>
> Many thanks for your input!
>
> Lindsay Button
> Urban Forest Technologist | Parks and Cemeteries | City of Kitchener
> 519-741-2600 x4181 | TTY 1-866-969-9994 | lindsay.button at kitchener.ca
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