Burlington Tree Removal Permits - Application & Fees

Land Use and Zoning Ontario 3 Minutes Read · published May 24, 2026 Flag of Ontario

This guide explains how Burlington, Ontario governs tree removal on public and private lands, who enforces the rules, how to apply for a permit, and what to expect if a removal is done without authorization. Early planning helps avoid fines, restoration orders and delays to building or landscaping projects. Check municipal directions and apply before cutting significant trees to limit enforcement risk and potential costs.

Overview

The City of Burlington regulates tree removal through municipal bylaws, urban forestry policies and permit processes for protected or municipal trees. Property owners and contractors should consult the city’s tree information and permit pages for specific rules, protected species, setbacks and mapping before any work begins. City tree information and guidance[1]

Always check the municipal tree page before planning removal.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is handled by the City’s By-law Enforcement and Parks/Urban Forestry staff. Where a removal breaches municipal rules, the city may issue orders, require restoration or pursue prosecution. Specific monetary fine amounts and escalation ranges are not specified on the cited city pages and must be confirmed with the enforcing department. By-law Enforcement contacts and procedures[2]

  • Fines: not specified on the cited page; contact By-law Enforcement for current penalty amounts.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to stop work, restoration or replacement planting, and possible court prosecution as enforcement tools (not fully itemized on the cited page).
  • Enforcer: City of Burlington By-law Enforcement and Parks/Urban Forestry staff; inspection and complaint pathways available through the city contact page.
  • Appeals and reviews: appeal routes and time limits are not specified on the cited page; request appeal instructions from the enforcement notice or the department listed on the notice.
If you received a notice, follow the contact instructions immediately to preserve appeal rights.

Applications & Forms

Requests for tree removal or protection assessments typically use a municipal permit or application form. The city posts permit guidance and application submission instructions on its permits and licences pages; specific application form names and fees are not specified on the cited page and should be downloaded or confirmed with the city before submission. Permits and licences information[3]

  • Application: see the city permits page for the current tree removal or permit application PDF (name/number not specified on the cited page).
  • Fees: fee schedules are not specified on the cited page; confirm fee amount on the application or by contacting the department.
  • Submission: online or in-person submission instructions appear on the permits page; deadlines depend on the project timeline and permit processing times.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my private property?
No single rule covers every lot; many removals require a permit if the tree is protected, large, or part of a city-owned tree canopy. Check the city tree guidance and contact By-law Enforcement for a definitive determination.[1]
How do I apply for a tree removal permit?
Download and complete the city’s tree or permit application available via the permits and licences page, include required plans/photos, pay any fee and submit as instructed on the forms page.[3]
What happens if a neighbour removes a tree without permission?
Report the removal to By-law Enforcement and Parks/Urban Forestry for inspection; remedies may include restoration orders or fines, though specific penalties are not listed on the cited pages.[2]

How-To

  1. Confirm whether the tree is subject to protection rules by reviewing the city tree guidance and any property-specific plans.
  2. Obtain and complete the tree removal or permit application from the city permits page, including site plans and photos.
  3. Submit the application as directed, pay the fee, and schedule any required inspection with Parks/Urban Forestry or By-law staff.
  4. If approved, follow permit conditions; if refused or served with an order, follow appeal directions on the notice or contact the enforcing department promptly.

Key Takeaways

  • Check city tree guidance before planning removals to avoid enforcement risk.
  • Contact By-law Enforcement or Parks for determinations, appeals and inspections.
  • Fees and fines are managed by the city; confirm amounts on the application or with staff.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Burlington - Trees on private property
  2. [2] City of Burlington - By-law Enforcement
  3. [3] City of Burlington - Permits and licences

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