Mayor Hammoud and Health Director Ali Abazeed hold on to the trunk of a newly planted tree
Department of Public Works

Order a Free Tree

The City of Dearborn offers residents the option to request that the City plant a tree in their residential easement, free of charge. Residents are responsible for the care and upkeep of the tree, including watering and weeding it regularly. The City will assist with tree trimming, as required. 


 

Order a Free Tree

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for a free tree?

All Dearborn residents are eligible to order a free tree for their property. However, the request must be approved and submitted by the homeowner. 

Are the trees actually free?

Yes, the City will plant a tree in your residential easement, free of charge. To request a tree, fill out the following form: Order a Free Tree (Google Form)

Can I choose the type of tree that is planted in my easement?

As you complete the form to order your free tree, the form will ask you for your preference of tree species. The City does not guarantee that they will be able to plant your preferred tree at your property, but will do their best to accommodate requests. 

Can I choose where the tree will be planted on my property?

No, the City will choose where to plant the tree along your residential easement. The location of the tree will depend on many factors, all assessed and advised by a professional arborist. 

What is a residential easement?

An easement is the section of yard or landscape located between the sidewalk and the curb of a street. This patch of grass is called a residential easement in neighborhoods. 

How do I care for my tree after it is planted?

Once your tree is planted, the City will provide you with information about the species of tree and how to care for it. Most trees require regularly watering and weeding in the first few months following planting. It is your responsibility to care for the tree once the City plants it in your residential easement. 

 

The City is only responsible for tree trimming along residential easements. 

Caring for Your Tree

Like any other living organism, trees require care even after they are planted. The treatment plants receive will be reflected in their growth and survival.


Watering needs will vary, depending on the type of soil, the drainage at the planting site, the type of tree, and the amount of rainfall received. From spring through fall, water the tree when 7-10 consecutive days pass without rain. A good rule is to apply 1 gallon of water for every square foot of surface area under the tree (one 5 gallon bucket).
 

Two very important practices that help trees survive are surface mulching and late fall watering. 

Mulching the area around the tree helps conserve soil moisture, moderates the soil temperature around the tree roots, and can minimize the freezing and thawing of soils which can damage their roots. Late fall watering benefits a tree by insulating the roots against rapid freezing and thawing. The presence of water in the root zone acts as an insulator and will help it to resist changes in
temperature better than one that is dry. Watering before the soil has frozen will increase the moisture content of the branches, twigs and leaves, reducing possible injury due to desiccation.


Trees are indispensable features of our landscapes. Healthy, vigorous trees have esthetic value and can add significantly to the market value of our homes.

Tree Services

The City of Dearborn has rules and regulations for planting, trimming, and removing trees on private property.