After tree removal in Toronto, proper disposal involves several options: the City of Toronto collects branches under 15cm diameter through regular yard waste pickup, while larger logs require private disposal services costing $200-$800 depending on tree size. Professional tree removal companies typically include basic disposal in their $300-$2,500 service fees, though specialty disposal like wood chipping or lumber milling may cost an additional $150-$400.
Toronto’s Municipal Tree Waste Collection Program
The City of Toronto operates a comprehensive yard waste collection program that handles most residential tree disposal needs. Branches and logs must be cut to maximum 15cm diameter and 1.2 meters in length to qualify for curbside pickup. The city collects yard waste bi-weekly from March through December, with weekly collection during peak fall season from October to November.
For larger tree disposal projects, Toronto residents can visit any of the city’s four transfer stations: Commissioners Street, Disco Road, Ingram Drive, or Bermondsey Road. These facilities accept unlimited quantities of clean wood waste for $15 per vehicle load. However, mixed construction debris or treated lumber incurs additional fees of $45-$90 per load.
Private properties in neighborhoods like Forest Hill, Rosedale, and The Beaches often generate substantial tree waste that exceeds municipal collection limits. In these cases, professional tree removal companies in Toronto coordinate with specialized waste management services to handle large-scale disposal efficiently.
Cost Breakdown for Professional Tree Disposal Services
Professional tree disposal costs in Toronto vary significantly based on tree size, location accessibility, and disposal method. Small trees under 6 meters typically cost $150-$300 for complete removal and disposal, while large mature trees exceeding 15 meters can reach $1,500-$3,000 including disposal fees.
Most reputable tree service companies include basic disposal in their removal quotes, but premium disposal options carry additional costs. Wood chipping services add $100-$250 to standard removal fees, while lumber milling for valuable hardwoods can cost $200-$500 but may offset expenses through wood sales. Understanding tree removal costs in Ontario helps homeowners budget appropriately for both removal and disposal components.
Emergency tree disposal following storm damage typically costs 25-50% more than scheduled removals due to urgency and safety requirements. Areas like North York, Scarborough, and Etobicoke frequently require emergency disposal services during severe weather events, with costs ranging from $500-$2,000 depending on damage extent.
Eco-Friendly Tree Disposal Options in Toronto
Toronto’s environmental initiatives promote sustainable tree waste disposal through several programs. The city’s organics processing facilities convert yard waste into compost and biogas, diverting over 170,000 tonnes of organic material from landfills annually. This process transforms tree waste into valuable soil amendments used in parks and community gardens throughout the GTA.
Wood recycling programs accept clean, untreated lumber from tree removals for manufacturing mulch, particleboard, and biomass fuel. Several Toronto-area facilities purchase quality hardwood logs, particularly oak, maple, and cherry, paying $50-$200 per cord depending on species and condition. This option particularly benefits homeowners in areas like High Park, Riverdale, and Junction Triangle where mature hardwood trees are common.
Urban wood recovery initiatives salvage valuable timber from tree removals for local artisans and furniture makers. Programs like Toronto’s Urban Wood Network connect property owners with woodworkers who collect and mill logs at no cost, creating a win-win disposal solution. Industry insights on sustainable practices highlight growing demand for locally-sourced urban lumber in Toronto’s maker community.
Legal Requirements and Permits for Tree Disposal
Toronto’s tree protection bylaws regulate both removal and disposal of trees on private property. Trees over 30cm diameter require removal permits costing $50-$310, with disposal methods specified in permit conditions. Obtaining proper tree removal permits in Toronto ensures compliance with disposal requirements and avoids penalties up to $100,000 for bylaw violations.
Protected tree species and heritage trees have strict disposal requirements mandating professional handling and documentation. Disposal receipts must be retained for two years as proof of compliance with permit conditions. Some permits require replacement tree planting, with removed tree material used as mulch around new plantings.
Commercial properties and multi-unit residential buildings face additional disposal regulations under Toronto’s Waste Reduction Strategy. Properties generating over 2 cubic meters of tree waste must use licensed waste management companies and provide disposal manifests to the city. Non-compliance results in fines starting at $500 plus disposal costs.
DIY vs Professional Tree Disposal Solutions
Homeowners can handle small tree disposal projects independently using Toronto’s municipal services and private facilities. DIY disposal works well for trees under 4 meters with minimal branching, requiring only basic cutting tools and transportation. However, comparing DIY versus professional tree removal reveals that disposal logistics often favor professional services for larger projects.
Professional disposal services provide specialized equipment including chippers, log trucks, and crane access for difficult removals. Companies maintain relationships with recycling facilities, composting operations, and lumber mills that accept various wood types at competitive rates. This network access often results in lower overall disposal costs compared to individual homeowner rates.
Safety considerations favor professional disposal for trees near power lines, structures, or in confined spaces common throughout Toronto’s dense neighborhoods. Recognizing when professional help is necessary prevents property damage and ensures proper disposal of potentially hazardous tree material.
FAQ
How long does Toronto collect yard waste at the curb?
Toronto collects yard waste bi-weekly from March through December, with weekly collection during October and November. Branches must be under 15cm diameter and 1.2 meters long, bundled or in paper bags not exceeding 20kg each.
What happens to tree waste collected by the City of Toronto?
The city processes yard waste at organics facilities, converting material into compost and biogas. Approximately 170,000 tonnes of organic waste, including tree material, is diverted from landfills annually and transformed into soil amendments for parks and gardens.
Can I burn tree waste on my Toronto property?
No, Toronto prohibits open burning of yard waste including tree branches and leaves. Violations result in fines up to $5,000. Residents must use city collection services, transfer stations, or licensed disposal companies for all tree waste.
Do tree removal companies include disposal in their quotes?
Most professional tree removal companies include basic disposal in their service quotes. However, specialty disposal like wood chipping, lumber milling, or emergency cleanup may incur additional fees ranging from $100-$500 depending on requirements and tree size.
Need expert tree removal and disposal services in Toronto? Our certified arborists handle everything from permits to eco-friendly disposal options. Call Toronto Tree Removal for a free quote and discover why we’re the GTA’s trusted tree service professionals.