Urban Forest Revitalization

Utica Urban Forest Revitalization Program

If you would like a free tree planted in the right-of-way (between the sidewalk and road) in front of your property, this is what we ask:

• Check to see if you have at least 4 feet of space between the curb and the sidewalk.

• Agree to water the tree.

• Understand that we cannot replace the tree if it fails because of lack of care or vandalism.

This year, we’ll be planting trees in the spring and in the fall. If you want a tree this spring, call or email us by April 12.

If you want a tree planted in the fall, call or e-mail us by September 15.

GETTING A TREE for FREE IS AS EASY AS 1-2-3 !

1. Choose Your Tree(s)

If you have overhead wires near your front lawn, choose a small tree. If not, you may choose a small, medium-sized, or large tree. You can see the list of trees and pictures here: URBAN FORESTRY PROGRAM TREES

2. Call or Email Your Request

To get a free tree for the front of your house, call the City of Utica Engineering Department at 315-792-0152 or email us your request at dkelly@cityofutica.com with the subject line: Street Tree Request

3. We’ll Do All the Work - You just Water the Tree & Watch it Grow!

City staff will ensure there are no underground utilities. We will also make sure the tree fits the space. We’ll deliver & plant the tree. You just agree to water it and watch it grow.

Background

In 2023, the City of Utica received a $2 million federal grant to transform our urban forests and green spaces by planting new trees and caring for existing trees. The planting area includes eighteen Justice40 Census Tracts as identified by the Federal Government, New York State, and Oneida County. These areas include neighborhoods in Cornhill, East Utica, West Utica, and Center City.

You can help by agreeing to let us plant a tree in front of your property in the space between the sidewalk and the road.

Our goal is to restore our urban tree canopy by planting trees in our parks and green spaces, and on our city streets, but we can’t do it without your help.

Urban Forestry Program Trees

Final Urban Forest Revitalization Mailer