Tree Removal Reports in Pickering
Pickering protects almost every mature tree, down to 2.5 cm in diameter. Our ISA Certified Arborist prepares the report the City's By-law 8073/24 requires for your permit.
How Tree Removal Permits Work in Pickering
Pickering's By-law 8073/24, updated in 2024, is one of the more protective bylaws in the GTA. It regulates trees down to 2.5 cm in diameter, meaning nearly any tree on a Pickering property beyond a sapling requires a permit before removal.
Assume a permit applies
At a 2.5 cm threshold, almost every established tree on a Pickering lot is protected. Rather than measuring to check, we start from the assumption that a permit is needed and work backward from there.
Check for dead or hazardous status
If a certified arborist report documents that the tree is dead or a genuine safety hazard, the permit fee is waived, though a permit is still required before removal. We assess condition first, since it changes the cost of the process.
Get an arborist report
Pickering requires a report for every application. The report documents species, diameter, condition, and the reason for removal, and is submitted alongside the City's PDF application form.
Submit the application
The application goes directly to the City as a completed PDF form. Standard permit fee is $155; it's reduced to $50 if a City arborist site inspection is required, and waived entirely for documented dead or dangerous trees.
City review and environmentally sensitive area check
About 38% of Pickering falls within environmentally sensitive areas covering significant woodlands, watercourses, and adjacent green space. Properties in these zones face additional review beyond the standard permit process.
Pickering Permit Fees & Timeline
Fee is waived for dead or dangerous trees with a certified arborist report, though the permit itself is still required. Properties in environmentally sensitive areas may face additional review.
Current report offer: from $200 (up to 3 trees)
2 business day turnaround. No payment until report delivery.
Tree Removal Permit FAQ: Pickering
Common questions about tree removal permits in Pickering
What size tree needs a permit in Pickering?
Any tree 2.5 cm or more in diameter, measured at breast height. This is far lower than most GTA municipalities, which typically start at 15 to 30 cm, so most established trees on a Pickering property require a permit before removal.
Do I still need a permit for a dead tree in Pickering?
Yes. A permit is still required, but the fee is waived if a certified arborist report documents that the tree is dead or poses a genuine safety hazard.
How much does a Pickering tree removal permit cost?
The standard fee is $155. It drops to $50 if the City requires its own arborist to inspect the site, and it's waived entirely for dead or dangerous trees backed by a certified arborist report.
What are Pickering's environmentally sensitive areas?
Roughly 38% of Pickering falls within zones covering significant woodlands, watercourses, and adjacent green space. Trees in these areas can face additional scrutiny beyond the standard permit review.
What happens if I remove a tree without a permit in Pickering?
Penalties run up to $50,000 or $2,000 per tree for a homeowner, and up to $75,000 or $3,000 per tree for a business.
Have another question? Contact us or call (647) 479-8778
More About Pickering
Arborist Services in Pickering
All our arborist services available in Pickering, from tree protection to construction reports.
View Pickering Services →Tree Removal Reports
Our tree removal report service covers the entire GTA. See the full service overview.
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Tell us about your property and an ISA Certified Arborist will follow up with next steps and a firm quote.
- Free consultation, response within 24 hours.
- 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.
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