If you are a homeowner in Toronto, North York, Scarborough, or anywhere in the GTA, you have probably wondered about the real cost of tree removal. With Toronto’s dense urban environment, mature tree canopy, and strict municipal bylaws, removing a tree is not just about cutting it down—it is a complex process requiring permits, professional equipment, and certified arborists. In 2026, with increased demand for tree services and evolving city regulations, understanding tree removal costs has never been more important.
As a certified arborist with Toronto Tree Removal, I have spent over a decade helping Toronto homeowners navigate the tree removal process. I have removed trees from cramped downtown backyards, suburban lots in North York, and tight spaces in Scarborough. Every job is different, and costs can vary dramatically based on factors most homeowners never consider. This guide breaks down exactly what you can expect to pay for tree removal in Toronto this year, with real numbers, arborist-level insights, and no fluff.
The Short Answer: How Much Does Tree Removal Cost in Toronto?
In Toronto during 2026, tree removal typically costs between $350 and $1,800 for standard residential trees, with most homeowners paying between $800 and $1,200 for an average-sized tree. Small trees under 30 feet may cost as little as $350–$500, while large trees over 60 feet with complex access issues can exceed $2,500. Emergency removals, hazardous trees, or situations requiring cranes can push costs to $3,000–$5,000+. These prices typically include cutting, basic cleanup, and debris removal, but may not include stump grinding or permit fees.
Factors That Affect Tree Removal Costs in Toronto
Tree Size and Species
The most obvious cost factor is the tree’s size. A 20-foot Japanese maple in your backyard is a completely different job than an 80-foot oak towering over your house. Toronto’s mature neighborhoods—like Forest Hill, The Beaches, and Cabbagetown—often feature massive century-old trees that require specialized equipment and careful dismantling.
Tree species also matter. Softwoods like pine and spruce are easier and faster to cut than dense hardwoods like oak, maple, or ironwood. Some species, like Norway maple (Toronto’s most common invasive tree), have aggressive root systems that complicate removal.
Location and Accessibility
Toronto’s unique urban landscape creates challenges that suburban tree services never face. Working in downtown condos, narrow Victorian lanes, or tight North York backyards requires specialized equipment, careful planning, and often manual climbing instead of bucket trucks.
Key location factors include:
– Proximity to structures: Trees within 10 feet of houses, garages, or fences require careful dismantling piece-by-piece, adding 50-100% to labor time.
– Power lines: Trees touching or near hydro lines require coordination with Toronto Hydro and specialized insulated equipment, adding $200–$500.
– Backyard access: If our chipper truck cannot reach your backyard, we need to carry debris by hand or use specialized mini-equipment, adding significant labor costs.
– Front yard vs. backyard: Front yard trees are typically 20-30% cheaper due to easier access and proximity to the street.
Permits and Legal Requirements
Toronto’s tree protection bylaws are among the strictest in Ontario. Under the Private Tree Bylaw, you need a permit to remove any tree with a diameter of 30cm (12 inches) or more at breast height (1.4 meters above ground). Violating this can result in fines of $500–$100,000 per tree.
Arborist reports for permits cost $300–$600 and are often required to justify removal. We handle this entire process for you, ensuring your removal is legal and properly documented.
Tree Removal Costs by Size and Type
Here is what you can realistically expect to pay for tree removal in Toronto in 2026, based on our actual job data from across the GTA:
Small Trees (Under 30 feet)
Cost: $350 – $600
Examples: Small ornamental trees, young maples, dogwoods, Japanese maples.
These are straightforward jobs, often completed in 2-3 hours with basic equipment. Minimal permitting required if under 30cm diameter.
Medium Trees (30–50 feet)
Cost: $700 – $1,200
Examples: Mature birch, medium-sized maples, cherry trees, small oaks.
This is the most common residential category in Toronto neighborhoods like East York and Leslieville. May require basic rigging and sectioning.
Large Trees (50–70 feet)
Cost: $1,200 – $2,000
Examples: Full-sized oaks, mature Norway maples, large spruces.
These jobs require advanced rigging, sectioning (cutting the tree down piece by piece), and usually 1-2 days of work. Large trees in North York and Scarborough often fall into this category.
Extra Large/Hazardous Trees (70+ feet)
Cost: $2,000 – $5,000+
Examples: Heritage oaks, massive silver maples, storm-damaged trees threatening structures.
These complex removals may require cranes, specialized climbers, emergency permits, and full road closures. We have removed 100-foot trees from Toronto’s tightest spaces—it is challenging but absolutely possible with the right expertise.
Toronto Tree Removal Permits and Regulations
Understanding Toronto’s Private Tree Bylaw
Toronto’s Private Tree Bylaw (Municipal Code Chapter 813) requires permits for removing trees with a trunk diameter of 30cm or greater at 1.4m above ground level. This protects the city’s urban canopy and ensures indiscriminate removal does not harm the environment.
Key permit facts:
– Permit cost: $100–$300 per tree (non-refundable)
– Processing time: 2-4 weeks, sometimes longer for heritage trees
– Replacement requirement: You may need to plant 2-3 replacement trees or pay into the city’s tree fund
– Exemptions: Dead trees, immediate hazards (emergency removal allowed with notification), diseased trees with arborist documentation
Do You Always Need a Permit?
No. You do NOT need a permit if:
– The tree is under 30cm in diameter
– The tree is dead (though documentation helps)
– It is an emergency hazard (document with photos, notify the city within 48 hours)
– The tree is on the city’s invasive species list and meets certain criteria
At Toronto Tree Removal, we assess your tree and handle all permit applications, arborist reports, and city coordination as part of our service. Visit our tree removal services in Toronto page to learn more.
DIY vs Professional Tree Removal: Cost Comparison
The Hidden Costs of DIY
Homeowners often ask: “Can I just cut this down myself and save money?” The short answer is: probably not, and it is dangerous. Here is the real cost breakdown:
DIY Equipment Rental:
– Chainsaw rental: $80–$150/day
– Safety gear (helmet, ropes, harness): $200–$400
– Wood chipper rental: $300–$500/day
– Truck/trailer for debris: $100–$200/day
– Total DIY cost: $680–$1,250+
Hidden Risks:
– Personal injury (emergency room visits cost way more than professional removal)
– Property damage (dropping a tree on your garage costs $10,000–$50,000+)
– Liability if someone gets hurt
– Fines for permit violations ($500–$100,000)
– Incomplete removal (stumps, root systems, cleanup)
When DIY Might Work
DIY is only advisable for:
– Very small trees (under 15 feet) with plenty of open space
– You have prior chainsaw experience and proper safety gear
– No structures, power lines, or fences within falling distance
– You can legally dispose of the wood (Toronto has strict green waste regulations)
For everything else, hire certified professionals. We are fully insured ($5M liability), WSIB-compliant, and trained in advanced rigging techniques that keep your property safe.
How to Save Money on Tree Removal in Toronto
1. Get Multiple Quotes
Tree removal prices vary significantly between companies. Get 3-4 quotes from reputable Toronto arborists. Be wary of quotes significantly lower than others—this often indicates lack of insurance, hidden fees, or inexperience.
2. Schedule in Off-Peak Seasons
Tree removal demand peaks in spring and summer. Booking in late fall or winter (December–February) can save 10-20% as companies have more availability. However, some emergency situations cannot wait.
3. Keep the Wood
If you have a fireplace or wood-burning stove, keep the cut wood. We can cut it to fireplace lengths for you, saving you $100–$300 in firewood costs.
4. Skip the Stump (Temporarily)
Stump grinding adds $150–$400 per stump. If budget is tight, have the tree removed and schedule stump grinding later. Just remember: stumps attract pests like carpenter ants and termites, and can be tripping hazards.
5. Group Multiple Trees
If you have 2-3 trees that need removal, scheduling them together reduces our mobilization costs. We often offer 10-15% discounts for multi-tree jobs on the same property.
6. Check for City Programs
Toronto occasionally offers subsidized removal for ash trees (emerald ash borer infestation) or hazardous trees affecting public safety. Check with the city’s Urban Forestry department.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does tree removal cost per tree in Toronto?
The average tree removal in Toronto costs between $800 and $1,200 for a standard residential tree. Small trees (under 30 feet) range from $350–$600, medium trees (30-50 feet) cost $700–$1,200, and large trees (50+ feet) range from $1,200–$2,000+. Hazardous trees or those requiring cranes can cost $3,000–$5,000+. These prices generally include cutting, dismantling, and basic cleanup. Get an exact quote using our tree removal cost calculator.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Toronto?
Yes, if the tree has a trunk diameter of 30cm (12 inches) or greater at 1.4 meters above ground. The permit costs $100–$300 and takes 2-4 weeks to process. You may also need an arborist report ($300–$600). Emergency removals for hazardous trees can proceed without prior permits but require notification within 48 hours. At Toronto Tree Removal, we handle all permit applications and arborist reports as part of our service.
Is stump grinding included in tree removal costs?
Usually not. Stump grinding is typically an additional service costing $150–$400 per stump depending on size and accessibility. Some companies include stump grinding in “full service” packages. Always ask what is included in your quote. We offer competitive stump removal services as an add-on to tree removal.
How long does tree removal take in Toronto?
Most residential tree removals take 3–6 hours for a single crew. Small trees may take 2-3 hours, while large, complex removals can take 1-2 days. Emergency hazardous removals are prioritized and can often be scheduled within 24-48 hours. Standard non-emergency jobs are typically scheduled within 3-5 business days.
Can I remove a tree myself to save money?
While DIY tree removal might seem cheaper upfront, it is rarely worth the risk for anything larger than a small ornamental tree. Equipment rental, disposal fees, safety gear, and potential liability often cost nearly as much as professional service. More importantly, tree removal is dangerous—falls from trees, chainsaw injuries, and property damage are common DIY outcomes. Professional arborists have the training, insurance, and equipment to remove trees safely and legally. Contact us for a free estimate before attempting DIY.
Get a Free Tree Removal Quote in Toronto
Ready to remove that problematic tree? Toronto Tree Removal serves Toronto, North York, Scarborough, Etobicoke, and the entire GTA with certified arborist services.
📞 Call or text us: (647) 558-1366
📍 Find us on Google Maps: Toronto Tree Removal on Google
💻 Or fill out our free estimate form
We offer free on-site assessments with no obligation. Most tree removal projects in Toronto are scheduled within 3-5 business days.