Mississauga Seeking Feedback on Proposed Changes to its Tree By-laws

The City of Mississauga is seeking public feedback on proposed changes to its Public and Private Tree By-laws. Changes are required as the existing tree by-laws no longer meet urban forestry standards. Over the last decade, the City has been making an effort to preserve, enhance and protect trees. Updates will help enhance the protection and safety of all trees in Mississauga on both public and private property. The public can provide feedback through an online survey or by attending a virtual public meeting on Wednesday, September 15 (6-7:30 p.m.). Feedback collected will help City staff make necessary updates to both of the tree by-laws.

The Public Tree By-law regulates the planting, maintenance and removal of trees on City-owned and maintained property. The Private Tree By-law regulates the rules around tree ownership, maintenance and removal of trees on private property. The public is encouraged to share their input about the proposed changes.

The updated tree by-laws will then go to Council for approval in fall 2021.

What:

Community consultation on proposed changes to the City’s tree by-laws

When/Where:

• Online survey: available until Sunday, September 12 – yoursay.mississauga.ca/tree-protection/survey_tools/tree-protection-survey
• Virtual public meeting: Wednesday, September 15, 2021 from 6-7:30 p.m. Register and participate through Webex

Who:

• Mississauga residents, including property owners
• Mississauga business owners
• Members of Council
• City’s Urban Forestry staff
• Community partners
• Developers

For more information about proposed changes to the City’s tree by-laws, to take the survey, to register for the virtual meeting or to access frequently asked questions, visit yoursay.mississauga.ca/tree-protection.

For more about Mississauga’s tree canopy, visit mississauga.ca/forestry.

Background

Trees play a vital role in the fight against climate change, including lowering temperatures, providing shade on hot days, providing habitat for wildlife and helping to make Mississauga and its neighbourhoods beautiful. Trees are also an important component to a healthy ecosystem by filtering pollution, controlling flooding and storing carbon.

Over the last decade, the City has been making an effort to preserve, enhance and protect trees. The City has continued to address the environmental pressures facing trees such as invasive species, urban redevelopment and severe weather events.

Mississauga currently has more than 2.1 million trees and is working to plant one million more by 2032 through the One Million Trees program. The City is focused on maintaining and enhancing tree diversity around the city – choosing trees based on species and function and planting them in areas where they will thrive. Having more trees in Mississauga will help conserve and enhance Mississauga’s open spaces and forested areas for future generations to enjoy.

Tags

• By-laws and Policy
• Parks and Forestry
• Public Consultation and Engagement
• Trees