Expert Tree Trimming and Pruning in Nanaimo

Preserve the health and beauty of your trees with certified care.
From structural thinning to fruit tree maintenance, Neighbourhood Tree Service delivers safe, precision pruning for homeowners across Nanaimo and Lantzville.

More Than Just Cutting Branches: Science-Based Tree Care

Proper pruning is an investment in the longevity of your landscape. In Nanaimo’s wet climate, dense trees can become susceptible to disease and wind damage. At Neighbourhood Tree Service, we don’t just “hack” away branches. We use ISA Certified techniques to selectively remove deadwood, improve airflow, and reduce weight—keeping your trees safe and structurally sound without sacrificing their natural beauty.

photo of Neighbourhood Tree Service owner Joe Doran Nanaimo trimming trees by ocean

Promote Tree Health

We remove crossing, diseased, or dead branches to prevent decay and encourage vigorous new growth.

View Enhancement

Love your ocean view but love your trees too? We use "crown reduction" and "windowing" to open up sightlines without topping or harming the tree.

Storm Safety

By thinning the canopy, we reduce wind resistance, making your large Firs and Cedars safer during winter storms.

Fruit Production

Specialized seasonal pruning for apple, pear, and plum trees to maximize your harvest yield.

Every job includes a full cleanup. We chip the brush, rake the yard, and leave your property cleaner than we found it.

Our 4-Step Pruning Process

1. Initial Assessment

  • Meet with Joe, our Certified Arborist.

  • Discuss your goals, tree health, and get a free quote.

2. Preparation & Safety

  • Crew arrives with full safety gear.

  • Site is prepared to protect your home and landscape.

3. Precision Pruning

  • Use expert ISA-certified techniques

  • No harmful topping—just expert care.

4. Cleanup & Hauling

  • We chip all brush and rake the yard clean.

  • All debris is hauled away and left clean

The Difference Between a Certified Arborist and a Guy with a Chainsaw:

There is a big difference between “hacking” a tree and proper arboriculture. Improper pruning—like topping or using climbing spurs on live trees—can cause permanent damage, rot, and future safety hazards.

At Neighbourhood Tree Service, we adhere to strict ISA Pruning Standards. We focus on “crown cleaning” and “thinning” to reduce weight and wind resistance while preserving the tree’s natural structure and health.

neighbourhood tree service owner Joe Doran trimming a tree in nanaimo

Why Certification Matters

Your trees are a valuable part of your property. Don’t trust them to amateurs. Our certified approach ensures your trees heal quickly, look beautiful, and live longer.

We're Proud of Our Perfect Reviews

Gina Green
Gina Green
2024-01-04
Joseph and Gabe were prompt, courteous and responsive. They did a fine job, even with the tricky tree caught between the power lines and a cabin. We are on Gabriola and they kept us posted on the ferry situation and their arrival times.
John Hall
John Hall
2023-12-17
I was recently very pleased with the work that Joe of Neighbourhood Tree Service completed.He knows what he is doing, did what he promised,and kept us well informed during the whole process.If you are looking for professional tree service, N.T.S. Is a good bet.
Stefan Nesz
Stefan Nesz
2023-11-17
I am truly impressed with his work, his skills are remarkable and very responsive to feedback. What was remarkable was his integrity - when a job could not be done did not put himself or me at risk and freely gave refund. You can rely trust this guy he is a good soul. Dr Stefan NESZPOR Psychiatrist GAbriola BC
Randie Johal
Randie Johal
2023-11-10
Joseph and Gabe did a great job for us on Gabriola Island. On time and very professional. Trees had gave them some challenges on location next to cabin and other trees. All were overcome with great expertise.
matthew webb
matthew webb
2023-08-04
Joe did an awesome job cutting down a few branches that were growing over my electrical wires. Fast & on time. Highly recommended!
Heather Lyn Sparrow
Heather Lyn Sparrow
2023-07-28
What more can I say? I would recommend Joe at Neighbourhood Tree Service to friends, family & customers who need trees trimmed back or taken down. Before I had any work done, I got three estimates. Joe was VERY proactive & followed up with me right away, then again a few weeks later. No one else did that. When I did engage his services, he showed up on time, did the agreed work at the agreed cost! He was professional in every interaction we had. I would not hesitate to use Neighbourhood again or recommend them to anyone looking for quality work at a very competitive rate. Thank you Joe!
Barbara Veller
Barbara Veller
2023-07-21
Joe was very professional, trustworthy and did an excellent job!!
Michael O'Brien
Michael O'Brien
2023-07-15
The best.
Eveline Stokkink
Eveline Stokkink
2023-07-15
Joe was personal, efficient and did what I asked for and more. Great find!
Annette Warwick
Annette Warwick
2023-06-19
I am very happy with the work he did. Very professional, prompt and reliable. Much appreciated.

Explore Other Services

Looking for something else? From hazardous removals to detailed hedge work, we offer complete vegetation management for Nanaimo properties.

Tree Cutting & Removal

Safe takedowns of trees

Hedge Trimming

Quick, clean, small trims welcome

Emergency Tree Service​

Fast response for hazardous trees

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to prune my trees in Nanaimo?
In most cases, routine pruning and maintenance do not require a permit. However, the City of Nanaimo has specific bylaws protecting significant trees, trees near watercourses, and steep slopes. As a knowledgeable local service, we can help you identify if your tree falls under these protections and guide you on the rules before we start any work.
For most species, including fruit trees and deciduous trees, late winter (January to March) is ideal while the tree is dormant. However, dead or hazardous branches should be removed immediately, regardless of the season. We offer year-round assessment to determine the safest time for your specific trees.
Yes. We use a technique called “spiral thinning” or “wind-proofing.” By selectively removing branches throughout the canopy, we reduce wind resistance (the “sail effect”) and weight. This allows wind to pass through the tree rather than pushing against it, significantly reducing the risk of failure during our winter storms.
We never use climbing spikes (spurs) on live trees that are being pruned. Spikes cause open wounds that invite disease and pests. We use professional rope-and-harness climbing techniques to access the canopy safely without damaging the bark or cambium layer. Spikes are only used for full tree removals.
You generally have the right to trim branches that cross your property line, but you cannot harm the overall health of the neighbour’s tree. We highly recommend discussing it with your neighbour first. We often facilitate these conversations and can perform a balanced prune that satisfies both homeowners and keeps the tree healthy.

Ready to schedule safe, reliable tree care?

Get your Free Estimate

We usually respond within 24 hours — for urgent work or emergencies, call Joe directly at (250) 668-2352.