Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Vaughan?

Yes. Trees meeting the protected threshold (20 cm base diameter) require a permit before removal. Dead trees may be exempt. Confirm with the city's urban forestry department before proceeding.

How long does a tree permit take in Vaughan?

Processing time in Vaughan is typically 30 business days. Submitting a complete ISA-certified arborist report with your application reduces the chance of delays.

What is the penalty for removing a tree without a permit in Vaughan?

Fines in Vaughan range First offense up to $10,000; subsequent up to $25,000; corporations up to $100,000. The city can also require replanting at the owner's expense.

Service Area

Arborist Reports in Vaughan

Tree removal permits and construction arborist reports for City of Vaughan. ISA Certified reports accepted by the municipality.

20 cm base diameter

protected tree threshold

2 days

report turnaround

14+

GTA municipalities served

Tree Bylaws in Vaughan

Vaughan's Tree Protection By-law 177-2025 regulates the removal, injury, and maintenance of trees on both public and private property. Any tree with a base diameter of 20 cm or more is protected and cannot be removed without a permit. The bylaw applies to residential, commercial, and industrial properties across the city.

The permit application requires an arborist report, colour photographs of the tree (both close-up and full view), and a property plan showing all trees on site. Vaughan's forestry staff review applications and may conduct site visits before issuing a permit. The city also has separate regulations for woodlots and properties near ravine edges.

Vaughan's rapid suburban expansion means many new developments border existing natural areas and mature tree stands. We work with homeowners planning renovations and builders on new construction to prepare tree preservation plans and removal applications that meet the city's current standards.

Vaughan Tree Bylaw at a Glance

Minimum Diameter

20 cm base diameter

Permit Fee

$237.35 permit fee + $153.25 processing fee per tree (non-refundable, 2025 indexed)

Processing Time

30 business days

Penalty

First offense up to $10,000; subsequent up to $25,000; corporations up to $100,000

Special Zones

Woodlot and ravine edge properties have additional protections under separate regulations

View official bylaw

Bylaw details verified 2026-03-23.

Before starting tree work in Vaughan

Check the Vaughan permit portal before any tree work begins. Bylaw requirements change, and fines for unpermitted removal start at First offense up to $10,000; subsequent up to $25,000; corporations up to $100,000.

Approved Tree Removal Permit

Sample approved permit from Vaughan (personal details redacted).

What Vaughan Clients Say

We had a dying Norway spruce that was leaning toward our neighbour's garage. The arborist came out quickly, confirmed it was hazardous, and the permit was approved in under two weeks.

Garage addition, Woodbridge

Building a new home on a lot with several mature trees that we wanted to keep. The preservation plan covered what the city required and our builder could work around it without losing a single tree.

New build, Kleinburg

Had nesting birds discovered during a demolition project. They did the survey, identified the species, and told us exactly when we could proceed without violating federal nesting protections.

Subdivision, Maple