FAQs

Township Council has been discussing tree‑cutting regulations since 2011. Multiple reports have been brought forward, and public requests have continued over the years. Currently, there is no regulation that protects natural features or governs tree cutting in environmentally sensitive areas. The proposed by-law aims to protect woodlands, regulate clear cutting, and align with Strategic Plan and Official Plan policies.

No. The by-law does not regulate every tree. It only applies to:

• Clusters of five (5) or more healthy trees
• Trees at least 15 cm (6 inches) in diameter
• Trees located within sensitive natural areas
  It also regulates clear cutting.

A sensitive natural area includes:

• Provincially significant woodlands
• Provincially significant wetlands
• Areas within the Township’s mapped natural heritage system

Clear cutting means removing trees from more than 0.2 hectares (0.5 acres) of woodland. Clear cutting requires a public meeting and Council support before a permit can be issued.

• Trees less than 15 cm (6 inches) in diameter
• Trees not in clusters of 5 or more
• Tree cutting outside sensitive natural areas
• Dead, diseased, or hazardous trees
• Trees on the invasive species list
• Normal farm practices
• Activities part of a Forest Management Plan
• Firewood cutting
• Tree removal related to an approved building permit
• Other exemptions listed in section 135(12) of the Municipal Act

These are trees designated by Council as having particular community importance and are protected under the by-law.

The by-law is both proactive and reactive:

• Proactive: Staff review all Planning Act and Building Permit applications to identify and mitigate tree cutting impacts. Environmental studies or tree protection plans may be required.
• Reactive: Enforcement is complaint-based. A By-law Officer investigates reports of non-compliant tree cutting.

Yes. Penalties include:

• $300 per infraction under the Township’s Administrative Monetary Penalty (AMP) By-law
• Orders to rehabilitate or replant trees, which may require professional studies
• For clear cutting or removal of more than 50 trees or 0.2 hectares, fines range from $50 to $1,000 per tree beyond the first 50

No. The intention is not to impede normal rural activities. Cutting single trees or performing routine farm practices remains permitted.

No. There is no fee for the permit itself.
However, depending on the site, applicants may need to hire professionals to complete:

• Environmental impact studies
• Woodland management plans
• Tree preservation or replanting plans

If someone fails to comply, they may receive an AMP penalty notice. The Township may also complete the required work themselves and charge the costs to the property owner

Although the Official Plan includes natural heritage protections, there is no enforcement mechanism without a by-law. The proposed by-law provides penalties and compliance tools that the Official Plan alone cannot.

No. Cutting single trees or conducting normal property maintenance is still allowed.