Do I need a permit to remove a tree on private property?

Often yes for regulated trees; check the City of Toronto private tree permit page for thresholds and exceptions.

What fees will I pay for a private tree permit?

Fees are published by the City; if not listed on the permit page they are not specified on the cited page.

Who enforces tree protection rules?

Urban Forestry and Municipal Licensing & Standards enforce tree protection and related bylaws.

Toronto Tree Removal Permits - Bylaw Rules & Fees

Land Use and Zoning Ontario 3 Minutes Read · published February 11, 2026

In Toronto, Ontario, removing or injuring trees on private property is regulated by municipal rules and a permit regime; property owners should consult the City of Toronto private tree permit page for official requirements and application steps: City of Toronto - Private tree permit^[1]

Overview

Toronto manages trees through Urban Forestry and bylaw enforcement units. Rules distinguish between trees on private property and City-owned trees, set thresholds for when a permit is required, and attach fees, replacement obligations and possible penalties.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is carried out by City of Toronto Urban Forestry and Municipal Licensing and Standards. Specific monetary fines and escalation ranges are not specified on the cited page; see the City permit page for local enforcement contacts and details.^[1]

Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
Escalation: first, repeat and continuing offence handling not specified on the cited page.
Non-monetary orders: remedial orders, replacement planting or stop-work orders may be issued by the City.
Court actions: the City may pursue prosecutions under the municipal code or seek compliance through court.
Inspection and complaints: report suspected unlawful removal to Municipal Licensing & Standards or Urban Forestry; contact details in Resources below.

Appeals and reviews follow municipal procedures and timelines; check the City page or the enforcement notice for specific appeal periods.

Applications & Forms

The City publishes a Private Tree Permit application and guidance online. The application name and any form number are available on the official permit page; fees are listed there when published. If a formal form or fee table is not shown on the permit landing page, it is not specified on the cited page.^[1]

Application: Private Tree Permit application (see City page).
Fees: fee schedule is published by the City; if absent on the page it is not specified on the cited page.
Deadlines: follow the application instructions on the official page for submission timelines.
Submission: online or as directed on the City permit page; contact Urban Forestry for complex cases.

Common Violations

Removing a regulated tree without a permit.
Failing to follow required protection measures during construction.
Not planting required replacement trees or not paying replacement fees.

Keep records of permits and any City correspondence when removing or pruning regulated trees.

Action Steps

Check whether the tree meets the City threshold for a permit on the official permit page.
Complete and submit the Private Tree Permit application as instructed.
Pay any applicable fees and comply with replacement or protection conditions.
Report suspected illegal removals to Municipal Licensing & Standards.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to remove a tree on private property?: Often yes for regulated trees; check the City of Toronto private tree permit page for thresholds and exceptions.
What fees will I pay for a private tree permit?: Fees are published by the City; if not listed on the permit page they are not specified on the cited page.
Who enforces tree protection rules?: Urban Forestry and Municipal Licensing & Standards enforce tree protection and related bylaws.

How-To

Confirm whether the tree is regulated under City rules and needs a permit.
Obtain and complete the Private Tree Permit application from the City website.
Provide required documentation: site plan, tree inventory, and any arborist reports.
Pay fees as required and await City review and decision.
If approved, follow any protection and replacement conditions; if refused, review appeal options on the decision notice.

Key Takeaways

Most tree removals on private property require a City permit.
Non-compliance can trigger orders, replacement requirements or prosecution.