Include trees that are staying
A retained tree can still be affected by the route to the work. Toronto identifies driving equipment, storing materials and demolition activity as possible sources of tree injury. Ask an arborist to assess protected trees and the relevant tree protection zones before treating a side yard or lawn as available for access or storage.
Overlay the proposed uses
Put the proposed travel route, loading position and material storage on the same plan as the tree information. Include neighbouring or street trees that may be affected. The City's guidance calls for a permit where proposed activity affects a protected tree's protection zone, and tree protection planning where nearby trees must be preserved. Obtain advice for the actual site rather than choosing a buffer from a photograph.
Resolve the route before the booking
Ask which proposed uses must move and which require further review. Do not treat a building permit or an owner's wish to keep a tree as approval of the access route. Keep the arborist's current plan with the site information, and identify who checks that the proposed arrangement matches it.
Recheck a changed layout
A different bin position or larger machine can change the tree question even when the building removal is unchanged. Carry that revision back to the arborist and relevant authority. For land near a valley or natural feature, also use the separate ravine screening guide; tree and ravine questions are related but do not have identical boundaries.
Questions to settle before the next step
Use this decision table with the people responsible for your property. Record the actual answers in your private project file.
| Decision | Question or evidence | Next action |
|---|---|---|
| Travel route | Does it enter a protection zone? | Arborist assessment |
| Storage or loading | Where can these uses be placed? | Current protection plan |
| Revised layout | Did an assessed use move? | Recheck before using it |
Keep your completed record private. Bring the relevant scope questions into the optional project planner or discuss them directly with Clearpath.
Official information
Check the applicable requirements for your property and proposed work with the responsible authority or qualified professional.
Source references reviewed October 8, 2026.