These are the questions Ontario, CA homeowners ask us most about tree removal, trimming, palms, stumps, permits and safety. If yours is not here, call (909) 479-2614. For the services themselves, see tree removal, tree trimming and palm tree trimming.
Common questions
Who owns the tree between my sidewalk and the curb?
In Ontario, the parkway strip between the sidewalk and the curb is City right-of-way, and the trees in it are City trees. The code says no one may remove or relocate a parkway tree without prior authorization from Public Works. In many HOA tracts, the association maintains the parkway. Contact Parks and Streets Maintenance at (909) 395-2600.
What clearance must I keep over the sidewalk?
Ontario's residential guidelines ask owners to keep parkway trees trimmed to about eight feet of clearance from grade, while the City handles major pruning and anything that cannot be pruned from the ground. Keep sidewalks and the street clear of low limbs so people and vehicles can pass safely.
How do I find out if a private tree needs a permit to remove?
Check with the City of Ontario's Planning Department and your HOA before removing a large tree on private property, because project conditions and covenants can apply. In nearby cities, rules are stricter: Rancho Cucamonga protects heritage trees, Chino Hills protects native species and La Verne protects oaks.
Is it safe to trim a tree near the service line to my house?
Lines from the pole to your house carry power too. Any tree within 10 feet of an overhead line, including service drops, should go to Southern California Edison first. Call 1-800-611-1911. SCE may make the tree safe at no cost so other crews can finish the job.
What is the difference between thinning and topping?
Thinning removes selected branches throughout the canopy, keeping the tree's shape and letting wind pass through. Topping cuts the top back to stubs, which causes weak, fast regrowth and decay. Thinning makes a tree safer. Topping makes it more dangerous over time, which is why we never do it.
Why should dead palm fronds be removed?
Dead fronds hanging under a palm's crown are heavy, highly flammable and a favorite nesting place for rats. In Santa Ana winds they tear off and fly into yards, streets and lines. Removing them once a year, while leaving the green crown, keeps a palm safer and healthier.
How soon can a stump be ground after a removal?
Right away. Many owners have the stump ground at the same visit as the removal. If the stump is near buried utilities, we have the area marked through 811 first, which can take a couple of working days. Then the grinder takes the stump and main roots below grade.
What should I check after a windstorm?
Once the wind has died down, walk your property. Look for broken limbs hanging in the canopy, fresh cracks in trunks or between stems, soil heaved around the base, and trees leaning more than before. Keep people and cars away from anything unstable, stay away from downed lines and call to have it checked.
Is fall a good time for tree work in Ontario?
Yes. Fall and winter are good for most pruning, because deciduous trees are dormant and the branch structure is easy to see. It is also the time to remove deadwood and thin dense canopies before the strongest Santa Ana winds. Avoid heavy pruning during summer heat waves.
How do I check a contractor's license?
Use the Contractors State License Board's online license check. Enter the license number or business name, and confirm the license is active and the classification covers tree work, such as C-49 Tree and Palm or the older D-49 Tree Service. Also confirm workers' compensation coverage is on file.