Abstract Background and study aims Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) allows for safe and effective removal of large non-pedunculated colon polyps, but recurrence remains a significant concern. Risk factors for recurrence have previously been reported, however, the significance of these factors have varied and has uncertain applicability with recent advances in EMR techniques. We aimed to evaluate rates and risk factors for recurrence in recent years from a major Canadian referral center. Patients and methods Consecutive patients between April 1, 2017 and March 1, 2019 who underwent piecemeal EMR were retrospectively identified. Patients with non-pedunculated colorectal polyps ≥ 2 cm removed by piecemeal EMR with available follow-up data were included. Results Five hundred and seventeen patients were reviewed, with 265 patients satisfying inclusion criteria. The median age was 67 years (IQR 14); 48 % were female. 15 % had a recurrence on follow-up endoscopy. Adjunctive removal techniques were utilized in 31 % of patients, 95 % of which was hot avulsion. The use of adjunctive removal techniques (OR 2.87, P = 0.004) and male gender (OR 3.31, P = 0.003) was significantly predictive of recurrence on multivariate analysis. Receiver operating curve characteristics demonstrated good performance of these factors in predicting recurrence (area under the curve = 0.70). Conclusions The use of adjunctive removal techniques, particularly hot avulsion and male gender are predictive of recurrence after piecemeal EMR of large non-pedunculated colorectal polyps. Male patients and those who require hot avulsion may be considered high risk for recurrence and warrant closer follow-up.