Get Involved with Colorado Springs’ Free Tree Program

Neighborhood Tree Planting Program

Thanks to a federal urban forestry grant, the City of Colorado Springs Forestry Division is introducing Grow Shade Together, a program that offers free tree planting to eligible residents in pre-identified, low-canopy areas of Colorado Springs. Consult the Grow Shade Together grant boundary map to determine if you might be able to participate. If you live south of Boulder St, you may submit an application for a tree. If you live north of Boulder St, you may purchase a tree at cost during the Middle Shooks Run Annual Tree Sale in April.

Growing Shade Together grant map screenshot (green hatch area)

Overview

Applications are open until March 18, 2026. Late applications will be accepted for fall 2026 planting.
Residents with a recently removed tree will get notifications via mail and door hangers.
Choose your planting location; staff will approve the site and complete utility checks.
Planting is scheduled for April 20 – May 22, 2026. You’ll receive a specific timeframe for your neighborhood.

Tree List

Northern Catalpa
Ginkgo biloba
Swamp White Oak
Common Hackberry
American Linden
Golden Raintree
Bigtooth Maple (Native Tree)
Ohio Buckeye
Turkish Filbert
Japanese Tree Lilac
Newport Plum
Crabapple (Fruitless)

Visit COS Forestry for details

Middle Shooks Run