2025 Tree Protection Guide for Toronto Construction Projects

Choose Tree Doctors for reliable tree care services that aim to meet your expectations.

Download Free Guide:

Fill out the form to get instant access to the 27-page 2025 Tree Protection eBook PDF. You'll also get a free consultation to help set up your Tree Protection Zone (TPZ) – done legally, safely, and affordably.

Free Download – Learn the Laws, Avoid Fines, and Keep Your Trees Safe

Planning construction near trees in Toronto?

Before you break ground, download our Free 2025 Tree Protection Guide – your essential resource for understanding local tree bylaws, setting up Tree Protection Zones (TPZs), and avoiding costly mistakes.

This field-tested guide is written by ISA-certified arborist Adam Gower, with over 10 years of experience.

Backed by Toronto’s latest Tree Protection Policy and Bylaws, this guide is packed with expert tips to help homeowners, contractors, builders, and developers stay compliant.

tree protection zone in toronto ca

What You'll Learn

Toronto’s Tree Protection Zone (TPZ) laws explained

How to set up a TPZ that passes City of Toronto

When and how to apply for tree removal or injury permits

Why hiring an ISA-certified arborist is essential

Common mistakes that lead to $100,000 fines per tree

Final landscaping rules and how to get your deposit refunded

Why This Matters for Construction in Toronto

Toronto’s bylaws are strict and actively enforced when it comes to protecting trees during construction. Damaging a protected tree—even accidentally—can delay your project, increase costs, and land you with massive penalties. Don’t risk costly delays or legal issues. If your job site is anywhere near a tree, you need this guide.

What is Tree Protection Zone?

What Is a Tree Protection Zone

A TPZ is a legally required barrier that protects a tree’s roots, trunk, and canopy from construction damage. Whether the tree is on your property, your neighbour’s, or city-owned—it may be protected by law. The guide includes:

TPZ setup diagrams

Required fencing specs

Minimum distance rules by trunk size

Special guidelines for ravines and natural areas

What is Tree Protection Zone?
tree protection zone in toronto ca

Avoid Fines – Stay Compliant with Toronto's Tree Bylaws Learn

Toronto bylaws like the Private Tree Bylaw, Street Tree Bylaw, and Ravine Protection Bylaw are actively enforced. Get it wrong and you could face

Fines up to $100,000 per tree

How to set up a TPZ that passes City inspection

Permit delays or rejections

Lost deposits and replanting orders

This guide walks you through every step – from pre-construction to post-build – in plain, easy-to-follow language.

Designed for

Homeowners
Understand your responsibilities when renovating or landscaping near trees. Avoid fines and ensure your property’s greenery stays protected.
Builders
Stay compliant with Toronto’s tree protection laws to prevent costly project delays. Learn how to set up TPZs and pass inspections with ease.
Developers
Mitigate risks and avoid legal issues by implementing tree protection measures during construction. Ensure your site remains compliant and on schedule.
Architects
Design with trees in mind from the start. Incorporate TPZs into your plans and collaborate effectively with arborists for approval-ready designs.
Landscapers
Protect existing trees during projects and ensure compliance with city bylaws. Deliver successful results while preserving your client’s landscape investment.

If you’re filing a building permit, ordering excavation, or working near any protected tree in Toronto, you need this eBook before you start.

What is Tree Protection Zone?

Choose Tree Doctors for reliable tree care services that aim to meet your expectations.

Download Free Guide:

Fill out the form to get instant access to the 27-page 2025 Tree Protection eBook PDF. You'll also get a free consultation to help set up your Tree Protection Zone (TPZ) – done legally, safely, and affordably.

Let Tree Doctors Handle It For You

We're Toronto’s most trusted tree protection experts, with years of experience helping contractors and homeowners stay compliant.

TPZ Setup & Removal

Arborist Reports & Tree Protection Plans

Permit Applications

Site Inspections

Tree Health Recovery Post-Construction

What is Tree Protection Zone?

What Clients Are Saying Across the Web?

Very satisfied indeed!

I had Tree Doctors remove a 40-50 ft, 30-yrs old Pine tree from my porch in Mississauga Heartland residential area (townhouse unit), October 17 2025. They came to estimate within days and in less than three weeks they removed the monster tree at a very good price (well below other quotes we got). The work was done in about 2.5 hrs, leaving the area very clean. The crew even did a favour to us and…

Jack Brag

Toronto, October 2025

I recommend this company

A three member crew did the tree pruning on my property. They did a very good job and were very courteous and professional. They left the premise clean and tidy. I recommend this company.

Nick Lekic

Toronto, October 2025

Professional and polite

Professional and polite. The crew did a great job trimming our almost 100 year old cedars. Clean up was amazing too.

Cindy Ray

Toronto, October 2025

Would highly recommend them

We requested pruning of some large black walnut trees encroaching on our property and making a total mess. The crew that came by was very professional, friendly and did an amazing job clearing as much as possible. They ensured the work was done safely and took time to clean up. Everything was professionally done in a timely manner. Would highly recommend them if you’re looking for similar services.

Umar Mohammed

Toronto, October 2025

We highly recommend them

The trusted team at Tree Doctors were awesome. Courteous and professional, they did a great job trimming our large black walnut tree. Thry cleared the branches near overhead wires which was a huge concern. They also did an amazing clean up afterwards of all the debris that fell to the ground. Cost quote was reasonable.We highly recommend them.

Paula Tsakiris

Toronto, October 2025

I would recommend this company to everyone

Tree doctors does great work and the guys/girls are very professional. The customer service is beyond amazing. They work hard and safe. All the employees are very friendly and knowledgeable. I would recommend this company to everyone.

Jesse B

Toronto, September 2025

Did you know the homeowner is responsible for accidents that happen on your propertry?
This is why you should always ask to see your arborist`s Proof of Insurance Certificate and WSIB Clearance Certificate.

Get Started with Your Tree Protection Plan Today

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