New & Replacement Trees FAQ

Yes, you can request a tree to be planted in a space where no tree has been planted already.

Just contact us. Call us at 608-266-4816 or email us. We will then evaluate the site for planting as soon as we can. 

Keep in mind the following things with your tree request:

• You will not be able to choose the species.
• There is a one-time charge for a new tree planted in a space along the road where there never was a tree before.
• Not every terrace can support a tree. We may need to tell you no. There may be underground utilities or overhead wires, or some other factors that may prevent the terrace in front of your home from being used as a planting space.

  • Keep in mind, if you have a yard you may be able to plant a tree on your own property. 

    There is far more private property in Madison than public land. Growing our urban canopy will require private property owners to plant appropriate trees to help make a healthy urban forest, too. 

    If planting a tree on your property interests you, we recommend utilizing a certified arborist so the tree is planted the right way. Local non-profits, like the Urban Tree Alliance, may be able to help as well. 

No.

This is a firm no.  We understand the many reasons why there are preferences. But, again, our answer has to be no. 

Our trained staff ensures the right tree is planted in the right space so it can thrive in the narrow space along the side of the road.  

We need to be sure we are creating a diverse urban canopy so it is resilient to our changing climate.  Plus, we have to consider things like underground utilities, other nearby tree species, tree species availability at the nursery, and other factors, too. 

For replacement trees, you will receive a door tag explaining the process. 

In new developments, like newly built sub-divisions, you will not receive notification. The planting in these areas was worked out with the developer, and they should be disclosing this information to you.

Yes.  Trees are staked to help them grow correctly.  We keep trees staked as long as necessary, and then a crew will be around to remove them when it is safe to do so for the long-term health of the tree.

The City of Madison has a goal to increase our urban forestry canopy coverage. 

Trees provide many benefits to homeowners. 

They help with stormwater runoff. They reduce cooling costs for your home in the summer. They increase the value of your home, too.  There are many other social and environmental benefits, too.

We have a whole other webpage related to assessments.

The basic summary is that if a tree is replacing one that was removed then there is no assessment.

If this is a new tree planted where there was never a tree before, then there is a one-time assessment for the labor, fuel, supplies, and admin costs related to planting the tree.  This one-time assessment is a lifetime guarantee as well. Any future replacements (including removal, stump grubbing, and replanting) are covered and you will not be assessed a second time.

No.

Per City Ordinance 10.10, the City Forester has authority over trees and their planting on city property.

The goal of Urban Forestry is to create a healthy, diversified, resilient, and vibrant urban forest. Tree species are carefully selected to achieve this goal.