Description of Service / Summary:
The City of Toronto plants and replaces trees on City-owned land, including road allowances, parks, and other greenspaces. Staff carefully select tree species and planting locations to support long-term tree health and help grow Toronto’s urban forest. Residents can request new tree plantings and share preferences where applicable.
Where the City Plants Trees
The City plants trees on:
- City-owned road allowances (the land between the roadway and private property)
- Parks
- Other public greenspaces
City staff assess each site to determine the right tree species and planting location. Decisions are based on:
- Soil quality and condition
- Natural light
- Nearby utilities
- Existing tree canopy and species diversity
Mandatory Replacement Tree Planting
When a City-owned tree is removed:
- A Service Request for mandatory replacement planting is automatically created.
- Replacement planting takes place once the stump has been removed.
- Replacement trees cannot be cancelled.
- Requests for species or location preferences may be submitted by contacting 311.
Optional New Tree Planting
City staff regularly inspect streets, parks, and other public areas to identify new planting opportunities.
These plantings help:
- Grow Toronto’s urban forest
- Support the City’s goal of increasing tree canopy coverage to 40 per cent
Optional tree plantings may be cancelled upon request.
How to Request Tree Planting
- Property owners can request a tree planting on the City-owned road allowance in front of their home or business by:
- Calling 311, or
- Submitting a request online
- When submitting a request, include details such as:
- Preferred location
- Species preference (if any)
- The City also accepts requests for general areas such as a street, neighbourhood, or park.
- Property owners may refuse an optional tree planting. Please note this may result in some locations not receiving trees.
- All requests are reviewed by City staff using guidelines that prioritize tree health and long-term success. Requests are accommodated where possible.
Notice of Planned Tree Planting
- If you receive a Notice of Planned Tree Planting and have questions or concerns, or wish to cancel an optional planting:
- Call 311 within three weeks of the notice delivery date.
- City staff will review the request using guidelines that prioritize tree health and safety. Requests will be accommodated where possible.
Species Selection
- The City encourages planting large-growing, native species whenever possible.
- In some cases, smaller-growing or non-native species may be selected to suit site conditions.
Additional notes:
- If a planned species is unavailable at planting time, staff may choose a similar suitable species to avoid delays.
- Not all species are appropriate for all locations.
- Some species are not offered due to maintenance needs, tree health considerations, or site limitations.
