Canada-wide tree rule guide
Construction near trees
Tree rules can be triggered even when a protected tree will stay standing. Excavation, grading, foundations, driveways and material storage can injure roots or enter a required protection zone.
What to check.
If construction is planned, check the tree rules before finalizing the site plan. Some municipalities require arborist plans or protection fencing before other permits are issued.
Why there is no national yes/no answer.
Canadian municipalities use very different systems. Some regulate most larger private trees. Some regulate only woodlots, environmental lands or development sites. Others focus almost entirely on public trees. The city guide is where Tree Rules Canada publishes the local source-derived answer.
Research note
This page explains a research process, not legal or arboricultural advice. Confirm the current rule with the municipality and use a qualified arborist where tree health or structural risk is in question.