The 2020 Grit City Trees Application is now Closed for the Season 

Through these challenging times, we can cultivate a better Tacoma – together. We recognize that now, more than ever, our community needs to find ways to connect and invest in our well being, our neighborhoods, and our community. While the Grit City Trees program is closed for the 2020 season, we are expecting the program will be back up and running next fall, so please check back in to apply for free street trees.

Still interested in planting trees in your neighborhood? Look into our Tree Coupon Program, now open through March 31, 2021!

Why Plant a Tree?

• Grit City Trees are free to eligible Tacoma community members. There is no investment necessary other than your time, and willingness to improve your environment.
• Trees directly impact and improve your health, and the health of your community.
• Trees help capture and reduce air pollutants, improving overall air quality in your neighborhood. Trees let you breathe easier!
• Trees keep you cool by reducing temperatures on the hottest summer days, saving you money on your utility bill.
• Trees help reduce stress and improve your sense of well being by giving you relief from the urban environment.
• Trees build community. While not required, we encourage you to talk with your neighbors about planting Grit City Trees together as a neighborhood.

Equity Comes First

The City of Tacoma is committed to racial, social, climate, and environmental justice for our community. In support of this work, we are committed to cultivating a resilient and sustainable urban forest. As outlined in the City of Tacoma's Urban Forest Management Plan, our goal is to reach tree canopy coverage of 30% in Tacoma by 2030.  With tree canopy coverage as low as 2.9% in some historically under-served neighborhoods, it is vital for the City to provide resources to support tree growth in these communities. 

We recognize particular communities have greater access to resources than others. With this in mind, the limited resources and support we have available through the Grit City Tree program will be prioritized to neighborhoods identified as “Moderate” to “Very Low Opportunity” on Tacoma’s Equity Index. Tree coverage is a major factor affecting the livability of a neighborhood. For more information on livability and opportunity in Tacoma, explore the Equity Index.