How to Hire a Tree Service Professional in Ontario
To hire a tree service in Ontario, start with insurance: the province has no licence for tree work itself (Hamilton requires a City licence), so ask for a current WSIB clearance certificate and proof of liability insurance before anyone climbs. Check an ISA certification in ISA's online directory, find out whether your city needs a permit for the tree, and get two or three written quotes that say who removes the wood.
How Ontario tree service professionals compare on ProScore
ProScore lists 1,323 tree service professionals in Ontario, and has published a ProScore for 1,205 of them. 595 of those reach Trusted (70+) or higher. ProScore matched 279 of them (21%) to the WSIB register by business name. A business that is not matched may still be covered, so ask any tree service professional you are considering for a current WSIB clearance certificate.
Counted from ProScore's current listings, refreshed daily. How ProScore scores
Hiring Checklist
What Ontario's rules say
- In Toronto, injuring or removing a private tree 30 centimetres or more in diameter, measured 1.4 metres up the trunk, needs a permit under the City's Tree Protection By-law. City of Toronto
- In Hamilton, a tree service company that prunes, removes or investigates a tree on your property must hold a Tree Cutting Service License issued by the City. City of Hamilton
- Skilled Trades Ontario classes Arborist (444A) as a non-compulsory trade, so no Certificate of Qualification is legally required to do tree work. Skilled Trades Ontario
- You can verify an ISA-credentialed arborist by name or certification ID in ISA's Find an Arborist directory, which replaced its older Verify a Credential tool. International Society of Arboriculture
- In Ontario, unless exempt, anyone who applies pesticides commercially on property they or their employer do not own needs a pesticide exterminator licence, valid for 5 years. Government of Ontario
Red Flags to Watch For
Door-to-door solicitation
Reputable tree services do not go door-to-door. This is a common tactic for fly-by-night operators.
Wants to top your trees
Tree topping is a harmful, outdated practice. Any arborist who suggests it is not qualified.
No insurance or refuses to show proof
Given the extreme risk of tree work, this is an absolute deal-breaker. Walk away immediately.
Uses climbing spikes on living trees
Spikes damage living trees and should only be used during removal. Proper pruning uses aerial lifts or spike-free climbing.
Dramatically lower quote than others
Low-ball tree quotes usually mean no insurance, no WSIB, improper cuts, and debris left behind.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
“Are you an ISA Certified Arborist?”
“Can I see your insurance certificate?”
“How will you prune/remove this tree?”
“Do we need a municipal permit?”
“What happens to the wood and debris?”
Licensing: No specific Ontario tree service licence required
Ontario does not require a specific licence for tree work. ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) certification is voluntary, and it is the industry gold standard. ISA Certified Arborists have passed rigorous exams on tree biology, diagnosis, pruning, and safety. Always verify insurance and WSIB for any tree work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do tree services need a licence in Ontario?
No provincial licence is required, but ISA Certified Arborist credentials demonstrate professional knowledge and competence. Always verify insurance and WSIB.
How much does tree removal cost in Ontario?
Small trees (under 25 feet) cost $300–$800. Medium trees (25–50 feet) run $800–$2,500. Large trees (50–80 feet) cost $2,500–$5,000, and very large or hazardous removals $5,000–$12,000.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my property?
Many Ontario municipalities require permits for trees over a certain diameter. Check your local bylaws or ask your arborist.
What is tree topping and why is it bad?
Topping is cutting the main leader and large branches to stubs. It damages the tree’s structure, promotes weak regrowth, increases disease risk, and is considered malpractice by certified arborists.
Compare tree service professionals in your city
Sources
- City of Toronto, When to apply for a tree or ravine permit. Accessed October 19, 2026.
- City of Hamilton, Tree ownership and responsibilities. Accessed October 19, 2026.
- Skilled Trades Ontario, Apprenticeship programs quick facts chart (Updated June 2026). Accessed October 19, 2026.
- International Society of Arboriculture, Find an Arborist portal: FAQs (Revised January 2026). Accessed October 19, 2026.
- Government of Ontario, Pesticide licences and permits (Updated June 2, 2026). Accessed October 19, 2026.
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