Trees · District of Columbia

DOEE RiverSmart Homes Free Shade Tree Planting

Run by DC DOEE (RiverSmart Homes)

WaitlistLast checked October 17, 2026
What you get
Free; no limit on number of trees
Who qualifies
Residential properties of 4 or fewer units in DC; an auditor must confirm shade trees (over 25 ft mature) can be planted. Not planted in the street tree box.
Where
DC residential properties with 4 or fewer units where an auditor confirms shade trees fit.
Status
Waitlist. (page does not state whether currently accepting applications)
Type of payment
Free item
Official program page

What you do

Get large shade trees planted free in your yard after an audit confirms they fit.

Requirements

  • Complete a RiverSmart Homes audit first
  • Trees planted in spring and fall
  • Owner maintains the tree (water, mulch, weed 4 times a year, prune dead branches)
  • Tree box trees go through 311 / Urban Forestry instead

How to apply

  1. 1Submit the RiverSmart Homes audit application and join the waitlist
  2. 2Auditor visits and checks shade tree feasibility
  3. 3Sign up through the auditor and join the shade tree waitlist
  4. 4Consult with an arborist on location, number and species
  5. 5Crew plants trees the following spring or fall

Timing and deadlines

Two waitlists then planting next spring or fall; wait times not published

not published

Combining it with other programs

Alternative for people who buy their own tree: Tree Rebate Program

Sources

Last checked October 17, 2026. See something out of date? Tell us.

Sow is not affiliated with any of these agencies or utilities. Amounts and rules change, often at the start of a fiscal year, so confirm the details on the official page before you start a project. How we research these programs

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