Here's how Toronto's tree enforcement is about to get tougher
· Toronto Sun
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The City of Toronto is introducing measures to give more enforcement power while protecting mature trees in the city’s canopy.
“Toronto’s urban forest includes trees located along streets, in parks, ravines, natural areas, green spaces, private properties, and landscaped open spaces throughout the city,” said James Nowlan, executive director, environment, climate and forestry for the city, in a report. “These trees provide a range of environmental and community benefits, including shade, energy savings, wildlife habitat, and improved air quality through the removal of carbon dioxide and airborne pollutants.”
The new bylaws come into effect on Sept. 1.
Currently, if a city resident cuts down a protected tree without a permit, fines range anywhere from $500 to $100,000. The accused must pay for the cost of replanting five trees for every one that is removed.
What is a protected tree?
A protected tree is defined as any tree on public property, in a designated natural ravine or a tree on private property that is a minimum of 30 centimetres in diameter.
Starting Sept. 1, the number of replacement trees required will depend on the size of the tree removed. According to the updated bylaw, city staff will be able to measure the size of stumps and use it as evidence a protected tree was removed without permission.
“Trees and urban forests are recognized globally as essential natural infrastructure, providing nature-based solutions for climate resilience and enhancing quality of life,” Nowlan said. “Notably, 98% of respondents to the Tree Bylaw Review survey said trees are important to their quality of life, underscoring strong public support for urban forests, natural green space and tree protection.”
Another update set to come into effect is more protection for larger trees that measure a minimum of 61 centimetres in diameter. Those larger trees will get extra consideration, and city staff will have more power to refuse removal applications.
The city is also launching a pilot program called the Distinctive Tree Maintenance Incentive Program to help private property owners care for very large trees.
“The program will support the care and retention of large, healthy trees on private property,” the city said on its website. “The program will help with maintenance costs, supporting stewardship of mature canopy trees. The pilot will run through 2026.”
For 2027, the city is considering lowering the protected-tree threshold from 30 centimetres in diameter to 20 centimetres.