City of Oshawa Bylaws: Trees and Yards
In this blog post, we explain the City of Oshawa’s bylaws that apply to trees and hedges, so you are aware of the rules for tree work or tree removal in Oshawa.
A Guide to the City of Oshawa Bylaws that apply to trees and the natural environment
The City of Oshawa is known for its green open spaces and plentiful trees. The City of Oshawa’s bylaws aim to preserve and protect these natural assets. Whilst in most cases property owners are not restrictred in what they do with trees on their own properties, there are a number of bylaws in Oshawa that might be relevant if you are carrying out work in your yard.
Bylaws in Oshawa: Tree removal
Trees on Municipal Property
The City of Oshawa tree bylaw prohibits the harming of a tree on public land. You must not remove or cut back any tree that is owned by the City. This includes climbing or fixing signs to these trees.
Trees on City owned land are maintained by the City of Oshawa’s Forestry Services Department. If City owned trees next to your property need to be cut back or are hazardous you must contact the City of Oshawa by creating a service request online or calling 905-436-3311.
Please bear in mind that if you are carrying out construction or yard work and you have City owned trees near to your property there is still the potential to damage City owned trees. Tree roots can spread over large distances and could be affected by work on your property. If in doubt, consult a professional arborist.
Privately owned woodland
If you are planning tree removal or cutting back trees in your own woodland and it is 2.5 acres (1 hectare) or more, the Durham Regional Woodland Bylaw may apply. This bylaw regulates the removal or cutting back of trees and aims to protect woodlands across the Durham Region.
This bylaw does not apply to orchards, nurseries, fence rows or agricultural land that has previously been cleared but where scrub and small trees have grown back. It also does not apply to land where a building permit has been issued or to remove dead or hazardous trees.
You will need to apply for a tree removal permit, submit any required documents and pay a fee of between $500 and $1000, depending on the permit required. It is always best to consult with Durham Region’s Forestry Consultant prior to submitting an application.
Planning and Economic Development
Planning – Forestry
The Regional Municipality of Durham
605 Rossland Road East
Whitby, Ontario Canada L1N 6A3
Telephone (within regional limits): 311
Telephone: 905-668-7711 extension 2551
Tree removal in Oshawa on private property
In most cases property owners are free to trim or remove a tree on their own private property without a permit. However, you are advised to trim branches properly, avoiding excessive cutting or causing irreversible damage to the tree. Notify neighbours if the trimming might affect their property and, if the tree is on or near a boundary line, check who is responsible for the tree.
Residential homeowners are responsible for the trees on their property and any damage they cause. Your householder insurance will not cover damage that has been caused by a falling branch or tree if the tree has not been properly maintained. So make sure you check the trees on your property regularly and carry out regular tree pruning and maintenance. If you are unsure about the health of the trees on your property contact a certified professional arborist.
