Quick answer: In Toronto you need a permit to remove a tree on private property if its trunk is 30 cm (about 12 inches) or more in diameter (Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 813). Removing one without a permit can bring fines of $500 to $100,000 per tree. Toronto Tree Removal handles the permit for you, including the arborist supporting letter.
Whether you’re a homeowner looking to clear your property or a developer planning a new project, this guide explains when Toronto requires a tree removal permit, how to apply, and what happens if a tree comes down without one. 🌳
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Toronto?
Yes, if the tree is on private property and its trunk measures 30 cm (about 12 inches) or more in diameter. Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 813 protects these trees, and removing or injuring one requires a City permit first. Trees on City streets and in ravine-protected areas follow separate, stricter rules (see below).
How to Determine If Your Tree Needs a Permit – Trunk Diameter
Toronto’s tree-removal by-law (Chapter 813) requires a permit for any tree with a trunk diameter of 30 cm (about 12 inches) or larger on private property. If the trunk is smaller, a permit is not needed, but you may still want a professional assessment.
If you are unsure how to measure, our ISA-certified arborists can take the measurement during the site visit and include it in the permit application.
Permit Requirements
| Tree Location | Tree Size | Permit Required |
|---|---|---|
| Private Property | 30 cm diameter or larger | Yes |
| City Property (street trees) | Any size | Yes |
| Ravine or Natural Feature protected area | Any size | Yes |
In Toronto, the Urban Forestry department oversees the tree removal permit process as part of the city’s commitment to maintaining its urban canopy.
Exceptions to permit requirements:
- Dead or hazardous trees (with proper documentation)
- Emergency situations (e.g., storm damage)
- Trees on agricultural lands for farming purposes
If you’re unsure whether you need a permit, it’s always best to consult with Toronto’s Urban Forestry department. They can provide guidance on your specific situation and help you navigate the tree removal regulations.
Why Are You Removing the Tree? Construction, Disease, or Safety?
The reason for removal influences the documentation you’ll need for the permit and any insurance claim:
- Construction or development – An arborist report describing the impact of the planned work on the tree is required. The report forms the supporting letter for the Chapter 813 permit.
- Disease or decay – A qualified ISA-certified arborist must assess the tree, identify the disease, and provide a risk evaluation in a written report.
- Safety concerns (e.g., risk of falling limbs, proximity to power lines) – A risk-assessment report is needed. Our crews are CUA-qualified, and there is no extra charge for trees near power lines.
When you contact us, let us know the primary reason for removal. We will schedule an arborist visit, prepare the appropriate report, and submit the permit application on your behalf.
How do I apply for a tree removal permit in Toronto?
You apply to the City's Urban Forestry department with a completed application and an arborist report that supports the request. The easiest route is to let us do it: Toronto Tree Removal handles the City tree permit for our customers, including the arborist supporting letter, and schedules the removal once the permit is issued. If you prefer to apply yourself, start with the City's "How to Apply for a Tree or Ravine Permit" page linked below.
How long does a Toronto tree permit take?
Typical processing takes 5–10 business days once a complete application is submitted. Incomplete applications take longer, which is why we prepare the arborist supporting letter with the application.
How much is a tree permit in Toronto?
The City charges a non-refundable application fee that depends on the type of application and number of trees, and it updates its fees every year. Check the current amount on the City's application form (linked below) before you apply. The arborist report that supports the application is a separate cost.
What is the fine for removing a tree without a permit?
Fines for unpermitted removal in Toronto range from $500 to $100,000 per tree. A permit, and an arborist report to back it, costs far less than the risk.
Can a tree company apply for the permit for me?
Yes. Toronto Tree Removal handles City of Toronto tree permits for our customers under Chapter 813, including the ISA-standard arborist supporting letter the City requires. Our crews are ISA-certified arborists, WSIB-covered, and carry $5,000,000 in general liability insurance. Call 647-558-1366 for a free, written quote.
What about City-owned and ravine trees?
Street trees owned by the City are protected at any size, and in ravine and natural-feature protected areas a permit is needed to harm or remove any tree, regardless of size. If you're not sure who owns a tree, the City suggests calling 311. To check whether your property is in a ravine-protected area, use the City's ravine by-law map linked below.
How do I report a tree by-law contravention?
To effectively report a Tree By-law contravention in Toronto, it’s crucial to understand what constitutes a violation. Common infractions include:
- Removing trees without proper permits
- Damaging protected trees during construction
- Failing to follow approved tree protection plans
Reporting Process
When you suspect a violation, follow these steps:
- Document the incident with photos and notes
- Gather relevant details (address, date, time)
- Contact 311 Toronto (phone, online, or mobile app)
- Provide all collected information to the operator
📍 Areas We Serve
We offer tree permits and services across:
And more GTA neighborhoods
What Happens After Reporting
| Step | Action | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Case assignment | 1-2 business days |
| 2 | Site inspection | 3-5 business days |
| 3 | Investigation | Varies by case |
| 4 | Enforcement action | If warranted |
Urban Forestry staff will investigate the report and take appropriate action, which may include fines, stop-work orders, or replanting requirements.
Official City of Toronto resources
- Tree & Ravine Protection (City overview)
- When to Apply for a Tree or Ravine Permit
- How to Apply for a Tree or Ravine Permit
- How to Report a Tree or Ravine By-law Contravention
- Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 813, Trees (PDF)
- Ravine and Natural Feature Protection By-law, Chapter 658 (PDF)
- Tree By-law Review (recent changes)
- Toronto Maps (ravine protection layer)
- 311 Toronto
Importance of Reporting
Reporting violations helps protect Toronto’s urban forest and ensures compliance with tree protection policies. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the city’s green canopy and ecological balance.
Now that you understand how to report Tree By-law contraventions, it’s important to remember that prevention is always better than enforcement. By following proper procedures and obtaining the necessary permits, we can all contribute to preserving Toronto’s urban forest.
Obtaining a tree removal permit in Toronto is a straightforward process when you understand the requirements and steps involved. By knowing when to apply for a permit, how to submit your application, and the importance of adhering to the city’s tree by-laws, you can ensure that you’re taking responsible action in managing the urban forest.
Remember, trees play a vital role in our urban ecosystem, and their removal should always be a last resort. If you witness any violations of the tree by-laws, don’t hesitate to report them to the city. By working together, we can maintain Toronto’s green spaces and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable urban environment for generations to come.
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