Stop Work Order
Stop Work Order & Order to Comply Clearance
Your project is on hold. We get it moving again. Fast, professional resolution of municipal tree violations by ISA Certified Arborists.
A Stop Work Order or Order to Comply halts construction until a specific deficiency is corrected and an arborist clears it in writing. We assess the violation, prepare the required remediation report, and liaise directly with the city to get your order lifted.
Every Day Counts
A Stop Work Order or Order to Comply means your project is at a standstill, costing you money every day. Whether it's a tree protection violation, unauthorized removal, or a missed permit condition, we have the expertise to resolve it fast and get your project back on track.
We've helped contractors, developers, and homeowners across the GTA get their orders lifted and projects restarted. The sooner you call, the sooner we get moving.
Who Needs This Service
This is for you if:
- You received a Stop Work Order or Order to Comply connected to trees on your site
- Trees were removed or damaged without the required permit, by you or your contractor
- Tree protection fencing was breached or went missing during construction
- A permit condition (replanting deadline, fencing spec, site restoration) was not met
- The municipality requires a professional arborist response before lifting the order
You likely do not need it if:
- No order has been issued. If you're trying to get ahead of requirements, a Construction Report is the right starting point.
- The Stop Work Order is unrelated to trees or vegetation.
- You need to remove a tree before starting work. That begins with a Tree Removal Report, not clearance.
Not sure which applies? Contact us and we'll sort it out in one call.
How We Resolve It
A direct process to get your project moving again
Emergency Assessment
Same day or next day
We visit your site immediately to assess the situation and review the order's requirements.
Deficiency Analysis
Identify all issues
We identify every deficiency cited in the order and determine exactly what the municipality needs to see.
Remediation Plan
Professional documentation
We prepare a full remediation plan with arborist reports, replanting plans, and corrective measures.
Order Clearance
Back on track
We submit everything to the city, liaise with officials, and work to get the order lifted so you can resume work.
Common Scenarios We Resolve
We've seen it all, and we know how to fix it
Tree Protection Violations
Damaged or missing tree protection fencing, encroachment into tree protection zones, or failure to maintain required barriers during construction.
Unauthorized Tree Removal
Trees removed without the required permits. We help develop compensation and replanting plans that satisfy the municipality's requirements.
Permit Condition Non-Compliance
Failure to meet conditions attached to tree removal or construction permits, such as replanting deadlines, species requirements, or site restoration.
Root Damage During Construction
Excavation or grading that damaged roots of protected trees. We assess the damage, recommend treatment, and prepare the documentation the city requires.
What We Deliver
Site Assessment & Documentation
Thorough inspection and photo documentation of existing conditions, damage, and all deficiencies cited in the order.
Professional Arborist Report
ISA Certified Arborist report addressing every requirement of the Stop Work Order or Order to Comply.
Remediation & Replanting Plan
Detailed corrective action plan including replanting specifications, tree protection upgrades, and compliance measures.
Municipal Liaison & Submission
We handle all communication with the city, submit the required documentation, and follow up until the order is cleared.
Don't Wait. Call Now
Every day your project is stopped costs money. We provide priority same-day or next-day response to get you back on track fast.
Call (647) 479-8778Request Help OnlineFree initial consultation
What It Costs
Stop Work Order situations vary too much for a flat rate. The key factors that determine scope:
- Violation type is the biggest driver. Documenting a fencing breach typically takes one site visit and a short arborist letter. Unauthorized removal of multiple trees requires a full replanting plan, species specifications, and formal submission to the city.
- Each protected tree cited in the order needs individual assessment and documentation. One tree is a contained scope; a multi-tree or multi-lot order takes proportionally longer.
- Municipality requirements differ. Some cities accept a brief arborist response; others require bonded replanting, site plan amendments, or committee approval before lifting the order.
- If your timeline is urgent and you need a same-day or next-morning visit, that priority factor applies. Given the daily cost of a construction standstill, most clients find it worthwhile.
There is no published flat fee for this service. Call or submit a request and we will give you a clear scope and cost within one business day.
Request a Fast QuoteServing Toronto & the Greater Toronto Area
We work with municipal urban forestry departments across the GTA and know each city's requirements inside and out.
Regional & Conservation Overlays
Properties near woodlands or conservation areas may need additional permits beyond your city's tree bylaw.
Not sure what applies? Contact us and we'll sort out the jurisdictions.
Every day the order stands costs money
Stop Work Order FAQ
Common questions about resolving Stop Work Orders and Orders to Comply
What is a Stop Work Order?
A Stop Work Order (SWO) is issued by a municipality when tree protection or permit conditions have been violated on a construction or development site. All work must cease until the issues are resolved and the municipality lifts the order. An Order to Comply is similar. It requires corrective action to meet bylaw requirements.
What is an Order to Comply?
An Order to Comply is issued when a municipality identifies that a property or project is not meeting the conditions of a tree permit, bylaw, or site plan agreement. It requires specific corrective actions to bring the site into compliance. Failure to comply can result in fines, further orders, or legal action.
How quickly can you respond?
We understand that every day a Stop Work Order is in effect costs you money. We offer priority response: typically a same-day or next-day site visit, to assess the situation and begin working on a resolution immediately.
What does the clearance process involve?
We conduct a thorough site assessment, document existing conditions, identify all deficiencies cited in the order, prepare a remediation plan that satisfies the municipality's requirements, and liaise with city officials on your behalf to get the order lifted as quickly as possible.
Can you deal directly with the city on my behalf?
Yes. We regularly work with municipal urban forestry departments across the GTA. We'll communicate with the city, submit the required documentation, and advocate for a swift resolution on your behalf.
What if trees were damaged or removed without a permit?
We can help even in difficult situations. We'll assess the damage, prepare a professional arborist report documenting the current conditions, develop a replanting and compensation plan, and work with the municipality to find a path to compliance.
How much does it cost?
Every Stop Work Order situation is unique, so we provide custom quotes based on the complexity of the issue, the number of trees involved, and the municipality's requirements. Contact us for a fast, no-obligation assessment.
What municipalities do you serve?
We serve the entire Greater Toronto Area including Toronto, Mississauga, Oakville, Markham, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Brampton, Burlington, Hamilton, Pickering, Caledon, King, Durham Region, and York Region.
Have another question? Contact us or call (647) 479-8778
Related Services
Tree Protection & Fencing
Proper tree protection installation to prevent violations and keep your project compliant from day one.
Learn More →Root Pruning & Excavation
Professional root management when construction requires work within the tree protection zone.
Learn More →Construction Reports
Tree preservation plans for construction projects to help you stay compliant from the start.
Learn More →Request a quote
Tell us about your property and an ISA Certified Arborist will follow up with next steps and a firm quote.
- Free consultation, same-day response.
- Municipal-ready report delivered in 2 business days.
- Independent assessment. No tree-removal sales, no conflict of interest.
Serving Toronto, the GTA, and across Southern Ontario.
ISA Certified Arborist · ISA Member · ISA Ontario Member · ASCA Member