What can I do with trees on my property?

At the office, we often receive questions concerning trees on and near your property. Here are some of the most common questions we are asked.

Can I plant a tree at my home?
There is no restriction on planting trees on private property, though residents are advised that once planted, removal of trees may be subject to permits as noted below.

You may not plant trees on city property (ie. the boulevard section, the section of grass closest to the road). You may, however, request that the City plant a tree on your boulevard. An application form with photographs of the 36 tree varieties available can be found here on the City site (link), or you may call 416-338-TREE (8733) to request a tree.

Can I prune/cut down a tree on on private property?
You are allowed to prune a tree as long as it does not cause the tree's death. If you'd like to destroy a tree which measure more than 95cm (38 inches) in circumference at the height of 1.4m (3 feet), you must apply for a permit from the City of Toronto (link). Exceptions may be made if the tree is in danger of causing damage, is terminally diseased, or is already dead. Trees smaller than described above may be removed without a permit. See the city's page on privately owned trees for more information (link).

The tree on my boulevard is damaged, what can I do?
If the tree a tree on city-owned property is damaged or diseased, or you're worried about a tree limb falling off of it, don't hesitate to call our office at 416-392-1374. We will help set up an inspection by the Toronto Urban Forestry Division, and action will be scheduled based on priority. You can also contact Urban Forestry directly at 416-338-TREE (8733).

Why hasn't the tree on my boulevard been pruned yet?
The regular pruning schedule for city-owned trees goes on a cycle of approximately two years, and in this time, trees can grow quite a bit. If the tree is obstructing the view of traffic or the glow of streetlights, you can request a pruning from Urban Forestry or through our office. Note that the tree will be inspected first before it is trimmed, and each of these processes may take up to eight to twelve weeks.

Useful links:
City of Toronto: Urban Forestry Services
Let Us Plant A Tree (boulevard tree info/request form)
Application to injure or destroy trees on private property
Full list of tree by-laws (Chapter 813)

Toronto's $2.8-billion Doomsday Clock is ticking (The Globe and Mail)

Reprinted from The Globe and Mail, October 3rd, 2009:

“Councillor Mike Del Grande, an accountant by training, calls [the city's benefit liability] a 'ticking time-bomb.' He argues that while everyone gets excited about the mayor and the $200-million, they are missing the real story: The city’s failure to grapple with its soaring liabilities.”

Read more...