Stump Grinding in Markham
We grind tree stumps across all of Markham, from compact townhouse lots in Milliken Mills and Cornell to open estate properties in Angus Glen and Cachet. Stumps left in the ground attract termites and carpenter ants, harbour fungal root rots that can spread to nearby trees, and create trip hazards and obstacles for mowers. Grinding removes the problem entirely.
Stump grinding does not require a permit in Markham. The City's By-law 2023-164 governs the removal of regulated trees, but once a tree has been lawfully removed, grinding the remaining stump is not regulated. We grind all stumps below the surrounding grade so the area can be regraded, sodded or planted with no visible remnant.
Our Stump Grinding Process
- We assess the stump diameter, wood type and root flare before selecting the appropriate grinder
- Locate any utility markings and dig by hand around the flare if needed
- Grind to below grade, typically 20 to 30cm, removing all visible root flare
- Chips and grindings raked and levelled in the depression
- Surrounding lawn and garden areas cleaned of all debris
Equipment for Every Lot Type in Markham
Markham has a wide range of lot types, from narrow townhouse backyards with single-gate access to wide-open estate grounds with no access restrictions at all. We carry multiple grinder sizes so the right machine goes to every job.
For tight backyards and gated properties in areas like Milliken Mills, Wismer Commons and Box Grove, our compact tracked grinder fits through a standard 36-inch gate opening and can manoeuvre in confined spaces without damaging lawn or fencing. For large stumps on open properties in Unionville, Angus Glen and Cachet, our full-size commercial grinder makes faster work of large root flares and multiple stumps in a single visit.
What To Do With the Chips After Grinding
After grinding, the cavity is filled with the wood chip and soil mix produced during the process. You have two options. The chips can remain in place to decompose over one to two growing seasons and act as mulch while the cavity fills in, or we can remove all the chip material from the property so you can immediately bring in topsoil and sod or seed the area. Most homeowners choose removal if they want to lay new sod promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does stump grinding in Markham require a permit?
No. Once a tree has been lawfully removed, grinding the stump is not regulated by By-law 2023-164 or any other Markham bylaw. You can proceed with stump grinding at any time without a permit application.
Can you access my backyard through a standard gate?
Our compact grinder fits through a 36-inch gate opening. If your gate is narrower than that, we can assess whether temporary fence removal would work or discuss alternative access options. We have completed many jobs in gated Markham backyards and will find a practical solution.
How deep do you grind the stump?
We grind to a minimum of 20cm below the surrounding grade on standard residential jobs. If you are planning to lay new sod directly over the area, we can grind deeper at your request to allow more room for topsoil. We discuss depth requirements before grinding begins.
Will the roots be removed too?
Stump grinding removes the stump and root flare down to below grade. The larger lateral roots extending away from the stump are not removed during standard grinding, but they will decay underground over time once the stump is eliminated. For most residential applications this is not a practical concern.
Can I plant a new tree in the same spot?
Yes, after grinding. If you plan to plant a new tree in the same location, allow at least one growing season after grinding for the chip material to break down, then bring in fresh topsoil before planting. We can advise on species selection and appropriate replacement tree size for your Markham property.
More Markham Tree Services
Get a Free Estimate for Tree Work in Markham
We serve all of Markham including Unionville, Cornell, Markham Village, Angus Glen, Cathedraltown, Berczy Village, Wismer Commons, Box Grove, Milliken Mills, Cachet, Raymerville, Greensborough and Buttonville. Our certified arborist visits your property, confirms bylaw requirements and provides a firm written quote before any work begins.