The Ranking
Our top 6 tree services in Edmonton
Edmonton's tree work is shaped by a short growing season and a tough wind and snow record. Most backyards hold American elm, green ash, Manitoba maple, white spruce, aspen, poplar and birch. Aspen and poplar are fast growers with brittle wood, so they are a common reason for removal after summer thunderstorms bring hail and straight-line winds. Heavy wet snow in late fall and spring can snap spruce and loaded elm limbs, and storm weeks are when crews book out and emergency calls cost more.
Elm care has a calendar rule. Dutch elm disease spreads through fresh pruning cuts, so Edmonton bans elm pruning from April 1 to September 30. A company that offers to prune your elm in July is breaking that rule. Ask about timing before you book, and remove or prune elms between October 1 and March 31.
Trees on city boulevards and other public land belong to the City of Edmonton and are covered by its public tree rules, so call 311 before anyone cuts one. Trees on your own lot are your responsibility, but check any development permit or condominium rules that mention tree retention. If a tree touches or leans on a power line, do not hire a crew to climb it. Call your electric utility, because only utility-authorized workers may work close to energized lines.
Alberta does not license tree service companies provincially, so the checks fall to you. Ask for the arborist's ISA Certified Arborist number and look it up on the ISA website. Ask for a certificate of liability insurance and a WCB clearance letter, which you can confirm with WCB Alberta, so you are not exposed if a worker is hurt on your property. If the job involves spraying, the applicator needs Alberta pesticide applicator certification. Most businesses working in Edmonton also need a City business licence. Compare written quotes that name what is included, especially stump grinding, wood haul away and cleanup.
