Tree Removal - 304 St. Clair Avenue East (Midtown - Ward 23)

The Toronto Community Council recommends

The Toronto Community Council submits the following report (January 4, 1999) from the Commissioner of Economic Development, Culture and Tourism:

Purpose:

An application for a permit to remove one tree on private property that is growing in the middle of a wooden deck has been filed by Ms. Jill Macrae, 304 St. Clair Avenue East, Toronto, Ontario, M4T1P4, owner of 304 St. Clair Avenue East.

Financial Implications:

N/A

Recommendations:

Either 1, or 2 below

(1)refuse to issue a permit for tree removal; or

(2)issue a permit for tree removal conditional on the applicant agreeing to plant a replacement tree to the satisfaction of the Commissioner of Economic Development, Culture & Tourism.

Comments:

The tree in question is a fifty-six centimetre diameter white oak in fair condition. The oak tree is growing from the centre of a rear yard deck and consequently the deck will have to be cut back periodically to allow for the expansion of the tree trunk. The arborist report prepared by Bostock Tree Service, dated October 5, 1998, that accompanies the application states that the tree leans over the house, threatening potential damage. In the opinion of staff, the main stem of the tree is upright with no visible lean toward the house. The tree should be pruned to remove deadwood that overhangs the roof of the house. The tree is a viable specimen and if monitored regularly by a qualified tree expert it should remain as a significant asset to the community for many years to come.

A notice of application sign was posted on the property for the required 14 day posting period, in order to notify the neighbourhood and provide an opportunity for objection to the application. No written objections were received in response to the application to remove the tree in question.

Contact Name:

Andrew Pickett

Telephone:(416) 392-6644

Facsimile:(416) 392-6657

e-mail:apickett@toronto.ca