Street Trees
To Tree or not to Tree?
The Street Trees Survey results are in!
In October 2020, we launched an online survey to better understand what street trees and plants mean to residents and businesses. The survey gave us an understanding of your priority issues, concerns and questions about street trees now and in the future.
We received input from over 1,000 respondents. Here are some examples of what you said:
- You recognize the importance of shade trees to the environment and to the lives of people and animals
- You value the role shade trees play in reducing the impacts of climate change
- You are interested in knowing where and what type of street trees are planted
See the results in the Street Trees Survey: What You Said in 2020 report.
Street Tree Survey results will be combined into the Corporate Asset Management Plan scheduled to be presented to York Regional Council in 2022 and will inform ongoing program development including an update of the 2017 Green Infrastructure Asset Management Plan.
Did you know?
- Street trees include trees, shrubs and plants
- York Region maintains street trees on Regional roads – main roadways that connect our nine local cities and towns to one another (i.e. Yonge Street, Dufferin Street, Highway 7 and Major Mackenzie), and your local city or town maintains them on municipal roads (your neighbourhood roads)
- Street trees and plants found on Regional roads (major commuter roads) are a significant benefit to the community. They help shape the character of our cities and towns and contribute to a sense of place
- There are approximately 70,000 street trees planted on Regional roads, with more planned in the future
- Street trees must be salt and drought-tolerant and able to survive the harsh conditions of our climate and Regional roads
- Street trees make up part of the urban forest which include trees planted outside of forested areas
Frequently Asked Questions
What are street trees?
Street trees include trees, shrubs and plants. Street trees make up part of the urban forest which includes trees planted outside of forested areas.
What is the difference between a Regional road and a local municipal road?
Regional roads are typically main arterial roadways that connect our nine local municipalities to one another. They are operated and maintained by The Regional Municipality of York. Each is identified by a numbered Regional road sign. Local roads are operated and maintained by local cities and towns.
Why did York Region ask for input?
To understand what the public expectations and preferences are related to urban forestry along Regional roads.
Results outlined in this report will be combined into the Corporate Asset Management Plan, scheduled to be presented in Council in 2022, and will inform ongoing program development and an update of the 2017 Green Infrastructure Asset Management Plan, which is currently in progress.
What kinds of trees and plants are currently used? How are they chosen?
The Region uses a mix of trees and plants that are best suited to survive the harsh conditions of our local climate and Regional roadways. Chosen trees must also meet the constraints of the designated location, such as available space and/or proximity to utilities. Some examples include the Kentucky coffee tree, honey locus and ivory silk lilac trees.
How is it decided what type of tree is planted?
Streetscapes include a variety of tree species, including five types for under hydro wires and trees that are salt and drought-resistant. The Region has lists of top performers based on past performance. Based on these lists and site characteristics, qualified staff determine what will be planted at each location.
Why are there trees planted directly under power/hydro lines?
Each year, York Region plants over 1,500 trees along Regional Roads. Not only do these trees help our streets look beautiful, they provide numerous benefits to residents. During planting, we are mindful many locations contain overhead power lines. When overhead power lines are encountered, the Region plants low-growing species, such as the Ivory Silk Lilac tree to establish trees on the boulevard while minimizing future conflicts with overhead power lines.
How many trees are currently growing on York Region roadways?
Approximately 70,000 street trees are growing on York Region roadways. This includes trees, shrubs and plants.
Who does all the maintenance work on these trees/plants?
Maintenance is mainly completed by contractors under direction from York Region.
What is the future plan for plantings on Regional Roads?
York Region staff continue to plan and plant street trees to increase the number of trees along Regional roads and expand the urban forest where possible. Planters are constructed during major road construction projects in consultation with applicable streetscape master plans and following the York Region Designing Great Streets Guidelines.
If I want to plant a tree, or need maintenance on an existing tree on my property, who can I contact?
If you would like to plant a tree, you may be eligible for a subsidy from LEAF in partnership with York Region for backyard planting. Please see yourleaf.org for more details. If you need maintenance to an existing tree on your property you will need to contact a private tree service provider. Please ensure they are qualified, insured and be sure to consult with your local municipality as there may be local bylaws related to individual trees that may apply.