Natural Resources Canada's 2025 plant hardiness zone map places Ottawa in zone 5a. Pick plants rated for zone 5 or colder for reliable results.
In 2026 a scaled 2D plan for a typical Ottawa front or back yard runs about $800 to $2,500. Adding 3D views brings it to about $1,500 to $4,000. Many design-build firms credit part of the fee when they do the build.
A patio at ground level usually does not need a building permit, but it must respect the City's grading and front-yard rules. Decks, pergolas attached to the house, pools and some driveway changes can need permits. We check during design.
Ontario law requires a locate request through Ontario One Call before digging. It is free and should be submitted at least 5 business days before work starts. The contractor handles it for the build.
Late summer to winter is the best time to design. Build schedules for May and June fill up early, and a finished plan puts you in the queue.
Yes. The City's guide sets the critical root zone at 10 cm from the trunk for every 1 cm of trunk diameter. We keep excavation out of that zone or use methods that protect the roots, and protected trees need a City permit to remove.