Old South property guide
Old South Tree Care, Infill and Grant Planning
Mature trees can overlap with backyard suites, additions, drainage and close property lines. Plan the tree and construction path together.
Source-backed local context
Old South includes designated heritage context
The Wortley Village–Old South Heritage Conservation District has its own plan and classes of alteration. Check the exact property and proposed work rather than assuming every landscape change needs the same approval.
Property checklist
Start with the tree, not the neighbourhood stereotype
Measure
Estimate DBH at 1.4 m and document any fork, slope or trunk irregularity.
Locate
Confirm private, boulevard or boundary ownership and check for protected-area or heritage context.
Assess
Have a qualified arborist identify the actual condition and an appropriate maintenance objective.
Apply
Submit the current quote before work and wait for the City’s decision.
Infill coordination
Protect roots before choosing the easiest excavation route
Utility trenches, foundations, grade changes and equipment access can affect roots beyond the trunk. London defines a Critical Root Zone radius of 10 cm for every 1 cm of DBH.
A qualified arborist can help the designer evaluate whether pruning, protection barriers, route changes or a footprint adjustment are appropriate.
Possible TCCP fit
Eligible work and a qualified professional are still required. Funding is not automatic.
Check the by-law
Within the Urban Growth Boundary, the Distinctive Tree rules may apply. Tree Protection Areas use different rules.
Primary sources
Check the official rules
Program decisions are made by the City of London. These sources were reviewed on July 29, 2026.