If you have a tree in your Toronto backyard that needs to go — whether it’s dead, damaged, or just in the wrong spot — your first question is probably: do I actually need a permit for this?
The short answer: it depends on the size of the tree and where it’s located. Toronto’s tree protection bylaws are among the strictest in Ontario, and removing a tree without the proper permit can result in fines of up to $100,000. Here’s everything you need to know.
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In Toronto, you generally need a permit to remove any tree on private property with a trunk diameter of 30 cm (about 12 inches) or more, measured at 1.4 metres above the ground. Trees on city-owned land, streets, and ravines are always protected regardless of size. |
Toronto Tree Permit Requirements: The Basics
The City of Toronto’s Private Tree Bylaw protects trees above a certain size on private property. Here’s the breakdown:
| Situation | Permit Required? |
| Tree on private property, trunk ≥ 30 cm diameter | Yes — permit required |
| Tree on private property, trunk < 30 cm diameter | Generally no permit needed |
| Tree on a city street or city-owned land | Yes — always protected |
| Tree in a ravine or environmentally protected area | Yes — ravine permit required |
| Dead or hazardous tree (emergency) | Permit still needed — fees may be waived |
| Tree impacted by construction or renovation | Yes — construction tree permit required |
The 30 cm diameter threshold (DBH — Diameter at Breast Height) is measured at exactly 1.4 metres above the ground. A tree of that size is roughly as wide as a standard telephone pole.
What Happens If You Remove a Tree Without a Permit?
This is where homeowners get into serious trouble. Violating Toronto’s tree protection bylaws can result in severe penalties — and the City actively enforces them.
| ⚠️ Warning: Penalties for Illegal Tree Removal in Toronto |
| Violation | Potential Consequence |
| Removing a protected tree without a permit | Fine: $500 to $100,000 per tree |
| Damaging a protected tree (roots, bark, branches) | Fine: up to $100,000 |
| Failing to replace removed tree as required | Fine + mandatory replacement order |
| Repeat or commercial violations | Maximum fines + possible legal action |
The City of Toronto takes reports from neighbours seriously. Inspectors actively investigate complaints and can access your property to assess violations. It’s simply not worth the risk.
How Much Does a Toronto Tree Permit Cost?
Permit fees in Toronto vary depending on the situation:
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Permit Type |
Approximate Fee |
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Single tree on private property |
$137.50 per tree |
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Replacement tree (if no space to replant) |
$585 per tree (payment in lieu of replanting) |
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Dead or hazardous tree removal |
Fees typically waived |
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Ash tree (EAB-infected) |
Fees typically waived |
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Ravine or protected area permit |
Varies — additional reports required |
As of 2026, the City of Toronto has been increasingly strict about accepting payment-in-lieu instead of actual replanting. Expect to plant one or more replacement trees as a condition of most removal permits.
When Don’t You Need a Permit?
There are situations where you may be able to remove a tree without going through the full permit process:
- The tree’s trunk diameter is less than 30 cm — smaller trees on private property typically don’t require a permit under the Private Tree Bylaw
- The tree poses an immediate safety risk and is a genuine emergency — contact Toronto Forestry at 311 before proceeding
- The tree is dead and poses imminent hazard — a permit is still required, but fees are waived and approval is typically faster
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💡 Pro Tip When in doubt, always call 311 or consult a certified arborist before touching any tree. It’s much cheaper to ask first than to pay fines later. |
How to Apply for a Tree Permit in Toronto
Applying for a tree removal permit in Toronto involves several steps:
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Step |
What to Do |
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1. Assess the tree |
Determine if your tree meets the 30 cm DBH threshold |
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2. Get an arborist report |
Hire a certified arborist to assess and document the tree’s condition |
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3. Submit your application |
Apply online through the City of Toronto permit portal or call 311 |
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4. Wait for review |
Standard permits take 4–8 weeks; ravine/construction permits take longer |
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5. Receive approval |
Permit is valid for a set period; removal must happen within that window |
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6. Plan replanting |
You may be required to plant one or more replacement trees |
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ℹ️ Important Standard private tree permits typically take 4–8 weeks. Construction-related and ravine permits can take significantly longer. Plan ahead if you’re coordinating with a renovation or landscaping project. |
How Castor Tree Care Can Help
Navigating Toronto’s tree permit process can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to do it alone. At Castor Tree Care, our certified arborists handle the entire process for you, from initial assessment to permit application to safe, professional removal.
We serve residential and commercial properties across the Greater Toronto Area, including North York, Etobicoke, Mississauga, Markham, High Park, and Toronto downtown.
- Certified arborist reports for permit applications
- Full permit application support
- Safe tree removal following City of Toronto guidelines
- Emergency storm response — 24/7 availability
- Stump grinding, pruning, and seasonal cleanup
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Have a tree that needs to go? Get a FREE quote today. Call (647) 330-2156 | castortreecare.com/get-a-free-quote/ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove a tree on my own property without permission in Toronto?
Only if the tree’s diameter is under 30 cm (measured at 1.4 m above ground) and it’s not in a ravine or protected area. Any larger tree requires a permit — even on your own land.
How long does a Toronto tree permit take?
Standard private tree permits typically take 4–8 weeks. Construction-related and ravine permits can take significantly longer. Plan ahead if you’re coordinating with a renovation.
Can a dead tree be removed without a permit in Toronto?
No — even dead trees require a permit if they meet the size threshold. However, permit fees are typically waived, and dead/hazardous tree applications are often processed faster.
What is an arborist report and do I need one?
An arborist report is a formal assessment prepared by a certified arborist that documents the tree’s species, size, health, and condition. It is required for most tree removal permit applications in Toronto.
Who do I contact about tree permits in Toronto?
You can contact the City of Toronto at 311 or apply online through the City’s permit portal. You can also consult a certified arborist who can guide you through the entire process.
