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TREES IN TRUST

Would you like to have a tree planted on the City-owned property in front of your home?

The City needs your help to find suitable locations for street trees. Trees are one of the most beneficial and beautiful improvements to our community streetscapes. They can make a difference in air quality, surface water quality and real estates values.If your City-owned street frontage lacks a tree and you have the time and commitment to help care for one, please contact us. Street trees are available by request on a first come, first served basis.

  • There will be no charge to the homeowner; (supply and planting will be provided by the City)
  • The program applies only to homes with street frontage (the space between your property line and the roadway)
  • The property owner must pledge to assist with the proper tree care (watering) for the first three years of the tree's life. Instructions will be provided.
  • Trees will be a minimum size of 50 mm diameter, or 2.5 to 3 meters in height.
  • Limit of one tree per household.
  • The proposed location must meet the program's criteria.

PLEASE NOTE: This will be a permanent enhancement on City property; no removals will be considered for homeowners who change their minds

What happens after I register?

City tree technicians will assess the potential of your property's frontage has for tree planting. This assessment will include a utility check. Applications must be received by the City on or before 15 December for spring planting and 15 June for fall planting. If there are more requests than trees and your property meets the program criteria, your name will be retained for future phases of the Trees in Trust program

Site inspectors will use the following criteria to assess potential planting sites:

  • Is there enough space? (other trees or obstacles must be a minimum of 7 m away)
  • Are there overhead or underground utilities?
  • Does the soil quality appear to be acceptable for tree growth?
  • Are there any conflicting uses on the planting site?
  • Has the request been made by the homeowner? (i.e., the person who pays taxes on the property)
  • Is there an obvious conflict with traffic safety requirements or City maintenance (i.e., sightlines or snow removal operations)

If you would you like to participate in the Trees in Trust program, please call 580-2400.

 

Contact the Ottawa Forests and Greenspace Advisory Committee
Contact City of Ottawa Forestry Services