About the by-law

Rules

• 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 (PDF) 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.

• Private Tree Removal Application Form for Dead, Hazardous Trees, or Emerald Ash Borer-Infected Ash Trees (PDF)
• This application form 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 Form Residential (PDF)
• This application form 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 Form Construction or Infill (PDF)
• This application form is for anyone who requires a permit to remove more than five trees that are privately owned anywhere in Vaughan.