Planting for Tree Removal Permits

LEAF frequently works with residents who are required to plant a tree as a condition of a municipal tree removal permit. However, LEAF tree sizes, species offerings and planting seasons may differ from permit requirements. If you are interested in replanting with LEAF, we recommend confirming with your permit officer that you have flexibility on the following details (if applicable to your permit):

Tree Size

Many permits require you to plant a specific tree size (e.g., 50mm caliper tree); however, LEAF trees are measured in height, not caliper or trunk diameter. Our deciduous trees are five to eight feet in height, and our evergreen trees are two to four feet in height at the time of planting/delivery. Please confirm you have flexibility to plant the size of tree LEAF provides.

Species Requirement

Many permits require you to plant a specific tree species (e.g., sugar maple). A LEAF arborist will recommend suitable species based on your property’s conditions from our planting list during your consultation, and you will only be able to plant from that smaller list of personalized recommendations. This means we cannot guarantee a specific species ahead of time. Please confirm you have flexibility on tree species.

Planting Deadlines

Many permits require you to plant by a specific date. LEAF plants/delivers in the spring (April to the end of June) and fall (September to the end of November). Our programs are first come, first served, so your planting/delivery season will depend on the timing of your consultation and our inventory availability at that time. Additionally, we cannot guarantee a specific planting/delivery date within a season. Please confirm you have flexibility to plant anytime within our seasonal timeframes, as you may need a deadline extension to accommodate the planting/delivery season with LEAF.
 

Please note: 

• The City of Markham does not accept LEAF trees to fulfill plantings required as a condition of a tree removal permit. 
• The Toronto low-canopy incentive cannot be used to fulfil a City of Toronto tree permit replanting requirement.
• Those who have a tree removal permit with the City of Richmond Hill do not need to get permission from their permit officer regarding tree size, species and planting deadlines (as described above)