Vaughan's By-law 177-2025 has a 20 cm threshold and 4 different permit types. Here's how it works for homeowners.
Vaughan's Tree Protection By-law (By-law 177-2025) regulates the planting, maintenance, and removal of trees on both public and private property. A permit is required to injure, destroy, or remove trees 20 cm or more in diameter, measured at 1.4 metres above ground or at the base.
Multi-stem trees with a combined diameter over 20 cm are also covered. The by-law requires the permit to be posted in a visible location on the property during work.
Trees that pose immediate danger can be removed without a permit. However, you must notify the City of Vaughan within 72 hours and provide photos documenting the damage or hazard.
For non-hazardous trees, you may be required to plant 1 to 4 replacement trees depending on the size of the removed tree. If you can't plant on your property, you may need to pay for the city to plant trees elsewhere. Dead, dying, or hazardous trees are exempt from replacement requirements.
Dead/hazardous trees, construction, residential removal, and tree preservation each have different requirements.
An arborist report is required for residential removal and construction permits. Dead/hazardous/EAB permits generally don't require one.
Apply through the City of Vaughan online services. Include all required documentation and pay applicable fees. If the trunk straddles other properties, get agreement from all property owners.
The standard initial response time is 30 business days. Post the permit visibly on your property once approved.
Yes, if the tree is 20 cm or more in diameter at 1.4m above ground or at the base. Multi-stem trees with a combined diameter over 20 cm are also covered.
Dead/Hazardous/EAB Permit, Construction Permit, Residential Removal Permit, and Tree Preservation Permit. Each has different documentation requirements.
Yes, immediate dangers can be addressed without a permit. But you must notify the city within 72 hours and provide photos of the hazard.