Tree removal permit help in London, Ontario
We check whether you need a permit, prepare a complete application, and explain what the City decides.
Do I need a permit?
Three questions decide it.
Under the City of London Tree Protection By-law (C.P.-1555-252). A summary, not legal advice.
1. Is it 50 cm or more in diameter, measured 1.4 m above ground?
A privately owned tree that size, inside London's Urban Growth Boundary and not in a Tree Protection Area, is a "Distinctive Tree" and needs a permit to remove.
2. Is it in a Tree Protection Area?
Trees of any size in a Tree Protection Area need a permit. The by-law includes maps. The City asks you to contact trees@london.ca first.
3. Is it a City or boulevard tree?
Residents can't work on City trees. The Boulevard Tree By-law applies instead.
A tree that isn't a Distinctive Tree and isn't in a Tree Protection Area is exempt. To work out diameter, measure the circumference at 1.4 m and divide by 3.14.
What the City needs
The rules, in plain language.
| Topic | What the by-law says |
|---|---|
| Permit types | Distinctive Tree Permit (needs an Arborist Report). Dead Distinctive Tree Permit (needs an Arborist Opinion). Tree Protection Area Permit (arborist or Registered Professional Forester report). |
| Who counts as an Arborist | The by-law includes an ISA Certified Arborist. Jason is ISA Certified Arborist ON-3263A. |
| Boundary trees | All owners must apply (by-law 7.5). Ontario's Forestry Act s.10 makes boundary trees common property. |
| Replacement trees | Schedule A: a 50 cm tree = 1 replacement, 51 to 60 cm = 2, rising to 11 for 141 cm+. None for a Dead Distinctive Tree. $350 per tree if they can't fit on site. |
| Timelines | Incomplete applications are closed after 60 days. Permits expire 6 months after issue unless stated. |
Sources: Tree Protection By-lawPrivately owned trees (london.ca)Forestry Act. Checked 21 Oct 2026.
Doing it yourself? Read Jason's step-by-step tree removal checklist for London, ON.
Permit Package
We prepare a complete application. The City decides.
Our report says what the evidence supports. We never promise approval.
- Eligibility check: diameter at 1.4 m, Urban Growth Boundary, Tree Protection Area
- Application prepared
- Replacement-tree count under Schedule A
Permit Package
per tree
- Not credited toward the removal
- No discount for extra trees
Not sure the tree needs to come down? Start with the assessment ($150)
Keeping the tree instead?
The Tree Canopy Conservation Program
The City of London helps residents care for mature private trees. Eligible trees are 40 cm or more in diameter, and the work must be done by a qualified arborist.
- Eligible work includes structural pruning, removing dead or hazardous branches, cabling and bracing, soil or root care, and pest management
- Reimburses eligible costs up to $1,000 per tree, to a maximum of $5,000 per property; most awards are less
- Apply before any work starts; work done already isn't eligible
- Work on oak trees is deferred to November to March
The 2026 intake is closed. Source: london.ca, checked 25 Oct 2026.
Outside London
Outside London
Different municipal rules apply outside London. Ask us about your property before any work is booked.
FAQ
Permit questions
How long does it take to get a tree removal permit?
That’s up to the City. Incomplete applications are closed after 60 days, so we aim to submit complete.
My tree is on the boundary with my neighbour. What now?
All owners must apply or no permit is issued. Under Ontario's Forestry Act, boundary trees are common property.
Do I need a permit to prune?
Pruning that is necessary to maintain the health and condition of the tree, done to Good Arboricultural Practices, is exempt under the by-law.
Can you promise my permit will be approved?
No. The City decides. Our report says what the evidence supports.
Start with a free quote, or an expert opinion.
Know the work you want? Tell us about the job and send a few photos. Not sure what the tree needs? Book a Certified Arborist Assessment. Either way, you get straight answers and careful work.
Prefer to talk? Call 226-224-5877 · Mon to Fri, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm · info@koalatree.ca