ReLeaf Residential Tree Program We plant. You water.
ReLeaf Petaluma, Cool Petaluma, and the City of Petaluma have teamed up to give you FREE TREES! Petaluma received $1 million from the Inflation Reduction Act and the USDA Forest Service, Urban and Community Forestry Program for a tree-planting initiative called the Petaluma Canopy Project. We planted 247 trees under this program in 2024.
ReLeaf and its partners are excited to be a part of this new residential tree planting opportunity to help cool our homes and neighborhoods! Trained ReLeaf volunteers will plant the tree(s) and offer care consultations for up to 3 years.
FAQs:
Which tree species are available? ReLeaf plants California native trees. If you have space for a large shade tree we will plant a large shade tree. Here is the list of Big Trees to choose from. If you have property constraints like a small yard or overhead wires, we will plant a small tree. Here is the list of Small Trees.
Why only native trees? ReLeaf Petaluma’s mission is twofold. We want to address the effects of climate change by planting trees and also support biodiversity. Local species of trees not only are adapted to California’s climate of rain in the winter and drought in the summer, but they also support local bees, butterflies, moths, and birds. Check out this website for more information on how local plants support biodiversity. Homegrown National Park.
How many trees can I get? Due to overwhelming demand for the program, we probably need to limit the number of trees per resident to one.
Where can I plant my trees? We can plant your tree wherever there is sufficient space for healthy growth. Front, back, side yard, or the sidewalk strip.
Do you remove concrete from the sidewalk strip? Some sidewalk strip planting areas have been filled in with concrete over the years. We do not remove concrete from the sidewalk strip, however, you may be able to hire our partner Rebuilding Together Petaluma to remove it at a low cost.
Sidewalk strip plantings need a permit from the City, but… The City is streamlining the process. It will be done through ReLeaf. There is no cost to homeowners.
Do I have to be home when my tree is planted? No. The planting location will be recorded during the Tree Consultation appointment.
What is my responsibility after planting? The resident is responsible for watering the tree according to ReLeaf’s specifications. We will give you a Watering Guidelines card after planting. The gist for drought tolerant trees is Summer 1: 10 gallons once a week, Summer 2: 10 gallons every 2 weeks, Summer 3: 10 gallons once a month. Extra waterings will be necessary during heat waves. In year 2 and 3 as the contract states, you allow ReLeaf to prune your trees.
Can I get a tree if I rent? If the landlord agrees to the tree and the tenant agrees to water the tree, renters can receive a tree.
Who qualifies for this program? Petaluma residents who sign the Tree Agreement. At ReLeaf’s discretion, we may also include residences in the Petaluma watershed that are outside city limits.
Is an 811 call required? Yes, an 811 call is required to find buried utilities before planting. ReLeaf will make this call a couple of weeks before planting. If utilities interfere with your planting spot, contact us and we will choose a different spot.
Funding for this project provided by the Inflation Reduction Act and the USDA Forest Service, Urban and Community Forestry Program. USDA, ReLeaf Petaluma, and all of its partners below are equal opportunity providers and employers.
