Tree By-Law

About the by-law

 

The City of Vaughan is committed to re-establishing the urban tree canopy. To do this, the consolidated Tree Protection By-law 052-2018 (PDF) prohibits or regulates the destruction or injuring of trees located on private and public property. Under the by-law, an offence may include destruction of a tree or injuring a tree without a permit, failing to protect a tree that is identified for protection in the permit conditions, or failing to comply with an order. Learn more about tree planting, pruning and removal.

Image
Person cutting a tree with a chainsaw

Picture of sample tree diameter

 

Rules

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Person cutting a small branch with a hand tool

 

  • Trees with a diameter of 20 centimetres or more (or a base diameter of 20 centimetres or more) must not be injured, destroyed or removed without having a permit to do so.
  • Permits are issued through Parks and Forestry Operations and should be posted on the lot where the trees are being removed.

 

Enforcement

 

  • The City’s enforcement officers may enter and inspect lands to ensure the by-law and permit is being complied with.
  • Any person violating the by-law may be fined up to $10,000 for first offences. Subsequent offences may be charged up to $25,000.
  • Any corporation violating the by-law may be fined up to $100,000.

 

Tree protection by-laws

 

  • Tree Protection By-law 052-2018 (PDF)
    • This consolidated by-law regulates the planting, maintenance and removal of trees on public and private property in Vaughan. This document describes the roles, responsibilities, and limitations of both the residents and the City of Vaughan.

 

Tree removal application forms

 

Submit an application using the on-line service portal for the following:

 

Dead, Hazardous Trees or Emerald Ash Borer-Infected Ash Trees 

Description: This on-line application is for anyone who requires a permit to remove a privately owned tree that is dead, hazardous or an Emerald Ash Borer-Infected Ash Tree anywhere in Vaughan.

 

Private Tree Removal Application - Residential 

Description: This on-line application is for anyone who requires a permit to remove a total of five trees or less privately owned anywhere in Vaughan.

Private Tree Removal Application - Construction or Infill 

Description: This on-line application is for anyone who requires a permit to remove more than five trees that are privately owned anywhere in Vaughan.

 

The forestry inspector will conduct a site visit and issue a permit provided the arborist report and replanting plan (where applicable) is accepted. Please note the standard initial response time for Tree Permit Requests is 30 business days.

 

If a permit is granted, it must be posted in a prominent location that is visible to the public.

Contact Information

By-law and Compliance, Licensing and Permit Services

Vaughan City Hall
2141 Major Mackenzie Dr.
Vaughan, ON L6A 1T1
Canada

Additional Resources