Reporting Tree By-law Contraventions

A Tree By-law contravention occurs when an action violates the City’s Tree By-laws. Examples include cutting down a protected tree or dumping construction fill in a Ravine Protection Area without a permit. Urban Forestry staff will investigate any reported contraventions and take necessary action.

Tree By-Laws Overview

• The Ravine and Natural Feature Protection By-law regulates all trees, dumping of fill and disturbance to grade in Ravine Protection Areas.
• The Tree Protection By-law protects all trees on City property and any tree 30 cm or larger in diameter on private property.
• The Parks By-law protects trees in parks and prohibits attaching items like lights or swings to City trees.

How to Report a Contravention

To report a Tree By-law contravention, select one of the links below or contact 311 within six months of the violation. When you report, include:

• Incident address
• Estimated number of trees involved
• Location of trees (e.g., front or back yard)
• Estimated diameter, species, and condition of the trees
• License plate number or company name of the person involved (if available)
• Date and time of the violation
• Your name as a witness

Contravention Process

Urban Forestry focuses on education and encourages the public to follow the Tree By-laws. While Urban Forestry prefers voluntary compliance, legal action may be taken against violators when appropriate. Fines for contraventions can range from $500 to $100,000 per tree, with an additional $100,000 fine for serious offenses.