Mississauga's Private Tree Protection By-law 0021-2022, as amended, sets one of the stricter tree-removal thresholds in the GTA. This guide walks through how the rule applies, current fees, replacement requirements, and how it connects to larger land-clearing and site-alteration projects. It is not legal advice.
Last reviewed: September 22, 2026
Based on current City of Mississauga information. Municipal requirements and fees can change. Confirm current requirements with the City before regulated work begins.
Still require a permit, but no permit fee applies. An arborist report is not required for a dead-tree removal application, though documenting the tree's condition supports a straightforward application.
The City requires an arborist report for development and construction projects. Replacement planting generally follows one tree per 15 cm of diameter removed, and a security deposit may apply.
Removing or injuring a protected tree without a permit can carry significant fines, on top of required replacement planting. Given the low 15 cm threshold, confirm permit status before removing almost any mature tree.
Land clearing primarily addresses trees, brush, stumps and vegetation, and qualifying tree removal within a clearing project still falls under the 15 cm private-tree rule above. Depending on the property, project scope and proposed land disturbance, construction-related excavation, grading or fill work can involve separate erosion and sediment-control or other municipal requirements. The City's current application information indicates an Erosion and Sediment Control permit may be required for work disturbing land on sites 1 hectare or larger, or on sites of any size adjacent to a watercourse. Not every clearing project meets these thresholds, so this does not apply to every site, it depends on the specific scope.
Tree Craft Ontario can help you figure out which rules apply, and handle the work once you're ready.
By-law 0021-2022, as amended, requires a permit to injure, destroy or remove a private tree 15 cm or greater in diameter, including dead or dying qualifying trees.
Yes, it's one of the stricter thresholds in the region, low enough that even a single well-established tree can require a permit.
Unauthorized removal can carry significant fines, on top of required replacement planting. Given the low threshold, it's worth confirming permit status before removing almost any mature tree.
Yes, a permit is still required for dead or dying qualifying trees, though the City states no base fee or additional fee applies in that case.
No. The City requires arborist reports for development and construction projects, but not for a dead-tree removal application.
Land clearing primarily addresses trees, brush, stumps and vegetation, and qualifying tree removal within that project still falls under the 15 cm private-tree rule. Depending on the property, scope and proposed land disturbance, construction-related excavation or grading can involve separate erosion and sediment-control or other municipal requirements. See our Land & Lot Clearing in Mississauga page.
Generally yes, replacement typically follows one replacement tree for every 15 cm of diameter removed, and a security deposit may also apply.
This guide is based primarily on official City of Brampton information and is provided as practical general information, not legal advice.
