Tree illegally cut down

If a tree comes between you and a better view, remove the tree. But, what if the tree isn't on your property?

For some, the tree comes down anyway.

City of Kelowna urban forestry supervisor Blair Stewart says it does happen occasionally when someone either unwittingly, or not, removes a tree on city property.

"I think most people know where private trees are and where public trees are. But I think there is still the odd person who might want to bend the rules to get what they want," said Stewart.

That may be the case in video provided to Castanet in which two men, not employed by the city and without permission, took a chainsaw to a large tree on city property in Black Mountain.

The tree is on the other side of a fence separating private and city property. What can't be seen is a home under construction, directly in line with the tree.

Stewart reviewed the video and sent bylaw officers to investigate.

"I don't want to get into too many specifics, but we are trying to get to the bottom of why it happened, then making sure the owner takes responsibility for their actions, and go from there," said Stewart.

"We've tried to have conversations with the people we feel are involved, but we haven't been able to connect for whatever reason. We want to make sure this gets rectified and solved."

Penalties and fines could be levied by the city based on the tree's location, age and condition.

He adds if people are unsure who a tree belongs to, they can contact the parks department.

"We are more than willing to come out and give advice or make comment on what it is ours and what isn't ours," he said.