Independent tree-rule information · Not a government or arborist service

Canada-wide tree rule guide

Replacement trees

Approval to cut a tree can come with a requirement to replant, meet a minimum tree count or pay compensation when replacement cannot be planted on the property.

Reviewed Sep. 13, 2026General research guide — the local municipal rule controls.

What to check.

Replacement rules can depend on tree size, permit type, development approval and the number of trees removed. Confirm species, minimum size and planting deadline from the local source.

LocationMunicipality and property context
TreeOwnership, size, species and condition
WorkRemoval, pruning, roots or construction

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.

Find your municipality →

Research note