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Forest Conservation By-law

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Forest Conservation By-laws have traditionally been referred to as tree cutting by-laws and have existed in Ontario for over 50 years.  These by-laws are intended to ensure that privately-owned forests are harvested on a sustainable basis and to regulate the clearing of forests.

The Forest Conservation By-law regulates:


  • properties at least one hectare (2.47 acres) in size
  • commercial harvesting
  • clearing of forests

The Objectives of the By-law are to:


  • conserve the forest landscape and prevent over harvesting
  • protect Sensitive Natural Areas
  • encourage ‘good forestry practices’
  • ensure a sustainable supply of timber for industry and landowners

This By-law Does Not:


  • regulate properties less than one hectare (2.47 acres) in size
  • regulate or restrict cutting in order to erect a building where approvals or permits are in place
  • prevent landowners from cutting wood on their own property for their own use providing the forest remains a woodland

Conservation Forester
Telephone: (705) ​721-6242
forestry@simcoe.ca  ​