Local tree-rule guide
Peterborough tree rules
Private-tree rules are present; check size/location exceptions.
The local rule
Peterborough's Tree Removal By-law requires a permit to remove many privately owned trees, using a 7.5 cm diameter-at-breast-height threshold in its current guidance.
The City separately protects City-owned trees and recommends confirming ownership before any removal or injury.
Application details
Peterborough’s tree-removal permit: the numbers that matter
- Peterborough has one of the more explicit private-tree permit systems in the directory.
- The key nuance is that the bylaw trigger begins at 7.5 cm DBH, while the separate healthy-tree permit fee starts at 15 cm DBH.
A permit is required before removing a privately owned tree that measures at least 7.5 cm DBH, or has the potential at maturity to reach that size. DBH is measured 137 cm above ground.
The non-refundable application fee is $15 for 0–5 trees and $150 for 6 or more trees. For a healthy tree at least 15 cm DBH, the additional permit fee is $50 when the application is submitted by a Licensed Tree Service Provider and $150 when submitted by the owner or another applicant.
The private-tree application is completed through the City’s online portal. It can be requested by the tree owner, by a Licensed Tree Service Provider on the owner’s behalf, or by another applicant on behalf of the owner.
If a healthy tree is approved for removal, the permit requires one replacement tree for each tree removed. The replacement must be at least 2 cm in diameter, of a species expected to have similar size/stature at maturity, and planted on the property where the removal occurred.
If the owner does not plant the required replacement on the property, the current Tree Replacement Fee is $550 per tree so the City can plant on municipal land.
City-owned street, park and natural-area trees cannot be removed through the private-tree permit process. Peterborough also has a separate Woodland Conservation By-law governing injury or destruction within woodlands.
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