​Bruce County urges residents to know the rules when cutting trees on their property

Before the chainsaw starts, get to know the rules about cutting or harvesting trees on your property.

Bruce County reminds residents and landowners that a Forest Conservation Bylaw is in place to help protect the forests for the future.

WHAT IS THE FOREST CONSERVATION BYLAW?

The Forest Conservation Bylaw has been in effect for more than 20 years. It helps promote responsible tree-cutting, supports sustainable forestry practice and protects the environment, all while respecting landowners’ rights to manage their woodlots.

DOES THE BYLAW APPLY TO YOU?

The Forest Conservation Bylaw applies if you have a forested area that is one hectare (2.5 acres) or larger and contains at least one of the following:
 

• 1,000 trees of any size 
• 750 trees over five centimetres (cm) in diameter
• 500 trees over 12 m in diameter
• 250 trees over 20 cm in diameter

If your property meets both the size and tree-count requirements, the bylaw applies.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Before removing, damaging or harvesting trees in these areas, landowners must:
 

• Get a free permit from Bruce County
• Follow good forestry practices
• Respect cutting size and marking rules
• Avoid sensitive natural areas
• Maintain a healthy forest after harvesting

Follow these steps to help ensure that forests stay healthy, productive and protected for future generations.

LEARN MORE

Discover more about the Forest Conservation Bylaw and best forestry practices, and apply for a permit. Woodlot owners can also explore helpful resources available on the county website.

If you still have questions, contact Bruce County’s transportation and environmental services department at 519-881-2400 or by E-mail at transportationinfo@brucecounty.on.ca.

The county encourages landowners to speak with forestry professionals to get the most out of their forests – both financially and environmentally.