The City of Toronto plants trees on City-owned land, such as road allowances (the portion of land between roadways and private property), in parks, and other greenspaces.
City staff assess each location to determine the appropriate tree species and specific spot for planting. Planting details are based on soil conditions and quality, natural light conditions, nearby utilities, and species composition of the area’s tree canopy.
Whenever a City-owned tree is removed, a Service Request for the mandatory replacement tree planting is generated automatically. Replacement planting occurs once stumping has been completed. Planned replacement trees cannot be cancelled, but species and location requests may be submitted by contacting 311.
City staff proactively inspect streets, parks, and other City-owned property for new tree planting locations. These new trees help grow Toronto’s urban forest and reach the City’s goal of increasing the tree canopy to 40 per cent. Optional trees may be cancelled upon request.
A property owner can submit a tree planting request for the City-owned road allowance in front of their home or business by calling 311 or submitting their request online. Please include any details such as location or species preferences when submitting a request.
The City also takes requests for tree planting in a general area, such as a street, neighbourhood, or park. Please note property owners can refuse an optional tree planting. This may result in some locations not receiving trees.
Requests will be reviewed by City staff using guidelines which prioritize optimal tree health. Requests will be accommodated where possible.
If you have received a Notice of Planned Tree Planting and have questions or concerns, or if you wish to cancel an optional tree planting, call 311 within three weeks from the notice delivery date. Requests will be reviewed by City staff, using guidelines which prioritize optimal tree health and safety. Requests will be accommodated where possible.
The City encourages the planting of large-growing, native species whenever possible. The City may occasionally plant smaller-growing or non-native species to address site needs.
If the requested or planned species is not available at the time of planting, staff may select a similar alternate species to allow the planting to proceed in a timely manner.
Please note that not all species offered are suitable for all locations. Certain species are not offered for City planting due to maintenance requirements, tree health needs, or site suitability.