Local tree-rule guide
Caledon tree rules
Local tree/bylaw source reviewed; confirm ownership, size and property area.
The local rule
Caledon's Tree Preservation By-law that took effect in 2026 regulates specified private trees outside woodlands, including trees at or above its 30 cm diameter threshold.
The Town provides exemptions for circumstances such as some dead or hazardous trees, but owners still need to use the current bylaw process to determine whether an exemption applies.
Application details
How Caledon’s new private-tree permit process works
- Caledon began requiring applications under its Tree Preservation By-law on January 1, 2026.
- The Town’s current guidance is unusually clear about shared-tree consent, replacement obligations and when a dead or hazardous tree can qualify for an exemption.
For the private-tree stream summarized by the Town, a permit is required for a tree at least 30 cm DBH unless an exemption applies. DBH is measured 1.37 m above ground.
Caledon states that there is currently no application fee for this permit process. The Town also warns that the fee structure can be revised later, so the current fee bylaw should still be checked before applying.
If the applicant is not the registered owner, or if the trunk is shared with a neighbour, the Town requires the appropriate owner or neighbour consent before the application is submitted.
Replacement trees are required for trees injured or destroyed under the bylaw. The number is based on the DBH removed, with on-site planting preferred. Cash-in-lieu is reserved for sites where replacement planting is not feasible.
Caledon can require refundable securities for replacement trees, normally released after an inspector confirms acceptable health and condition, typically after one growing season. Completely dead or qualifying hazardous trees are exempt from the permit requirement, although the Town can require arborist confirmation where status is uncertain.
Before work starts
- Ownership: check the property line. Public and boundary trees may follow a different process.
- Site context: review any development approval, covenant or protected-area conditions.
- Work requirements: confirm any permit, exemption or protection requirements that apply to the planned work.
Official sources
Primary municipal source reviewed October 1, 2026. Rules can change; confirm with the local authority before work. How we research