2026 Guide

How to Hire a Tree Service Professional in Ontario

Tree work is one of the most dangerous trades in Ontario, and improper pruning or removal can damage your property, kill healthy trees, or leave you liable for injuries. Hiring a qualified arborist protects your trees, your property, and your wallet.

1,604

Tree Service Professionals

Licensed

18%

WSIB Registered

Hiring Checklist

Look for ISA Certified Arborist credentials

International Society of Arboriculture certification ensures the arborist has demonstrated knowledge of proper tree care practices.

Verify liability insurance ($2M+ minimum)

Tree work carries extreme risk. A falling tree or branch can destroy roofs, fences, vehicles, and neighbouring property.

Confirm WSIB registration

Tree work is among the most dangerous trades. WSIB protects you from catastrophic injury liability.

Get a written quote with scope of work

Should include which trees, what type of work (pruning, removal, stump grinding), debris disposal, and timeline.

Ask about their equipment and safety protocols

Professional tree services use proper rigging, aerial lifts, and PPE. Chainsaw and a ladder is not acceptable.

Check municipal tree bylaws

Many Ontario municipalities require permits to remove trees, even on private property. Your arborist should know the local rules.

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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Tree topping is a harmful, outdated practice.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

\u201cAre you an ISA Certified Arborist?\u201d

Good answer: They should provide their ISA certification number. You can verify it on the ISA website.

\u201cCan I see your insurance certificate?\u201d

Good answer: They should readily provide proof of $2M+ liability and active WSIB coverage without hesitation.

\u201cHow will you prune/remove this tree?\u201d

Good answer: They should explain the specific technique, rigging plan for removals, and how they will protect surrounding property.

\u201cDo we need a municipal permit?\u201d

Good answer: They should know your municipality’s tree bylaws and handle the permit application if required.

\u201cWhat happens to the wood and debris?\u201d

Good answer: They should include removal and cleanup in the quote. Some offer to leave firewood if you want it.

Licensing: No specific Ontario tree service licence required

Ontario does not require a specific licence for tree work, but ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) certification 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 run $800–$1,500. Large trees (60+ feet) or hazardous removals can cost $2,000–$5,000+.

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.

Hiring a Tree Service Professional by City

Get city-specific hiring advice:

Toronto Ottawa Mississauga Brampton Hamilton London Markham Vaughan Kitchener Windsor Barrie Oakville Burlington Oshawa Guelph Cambridge Whitby Richmond Hill Ajax Milton

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