When are street trees planted?

We plant trees twice a year:

• Spring (mid-April to June)
• Fall (November to December)

Where does the City plant trees?

All street trees go in the tree lawn in the public right-of-way. This is the strip of grass between the curb and the sidewalk, or just along the roadway if no sidewalk or curb exists.

RE-TREE Toledo is a program that is planting trees in the public right-of-way and private property in qualified census tracts.

The City also plants trees in city parks.

Can I choose the type of tree planted in my right of way?

Short answer, no. Our arborists select species based on the principle of Right Tree, Right Place. They consider soil, space, sun, pests, and infrastructure to ensure the tree thrives.

Can I opt out of having a street tree added to my tree lawn?

Unfortunately, no. Street trees are essential city infrastructure, just like sewers and streets. Every propoerty pays a Tree Maintenance Assessment that funds planting, pruning, and removal.

Why is there a white flag in my yard?

The white flags mark the location where the tree will be planted.

Can I prune or remove a tree myself?

No. Vandalism, improper pruning, or tree removal without a permit violates TMC Chapter 917. There is no fee for a pruning permit.

What should I do if a street tree needs maintenance?

Report any tree maintenance concerns to Engage Toledo. Call 419-936-2020.

Why does the City remove trees?

We only remove trees if they are dead, dying, diseased, hazardous, or in conflict with required infrastructure repairs.

If trees are removed for a construction or infrastructure repair, a replacement tree will be planted in the same location or in close proximity for a 1:1 ratio.

Occasionally, Toledo Edison or Columbia Gas may need to remove or trim trees.

Do trees cause sewer or waterline problems?

Sometimes. Roots may interact with aging infrastructure, but our arborists assess each case within the public right-of-way.

Many residents opt to have their private water and sewer lines inspected and cleared regularly.

What does the city do about insects or diseases?

We monitor for infestations and remove or replace affected trees when necessary.

Residents can contact Engage Toledo with any concerns about trees in the public righ-of-way.

What should I do if the public tree is lifting or breaking the sidewalk in front of my home?

Report the damage to Engage Toledo. Beginning in 2026, sidewalk repairs for tree root damage within the tree's drip line are covered by the Tree Assessment Fund.