Trees · Iowa

Ames SmartWatersheds Native Tree Rebate

Run by City of Ames Public Works - SmartWatersheds

OpenPlan requiredLast checked October 17, 2026
What you get
Up to $100 per tree, $200 total including mulch (single-family)
Maximum
$200 per household
Who qualifies
City of Ames property owners; homeowner must apply (landscape contractors not eligible); trees required by site plan or subdivision rules are excluded.
Where
Property owners within Ames city limits.
Status
Open. Subject to availability of funds.
Type of payment
Rebate
Official program page

What you do

Plant an approved Iowa native tree (at least 4 ft tall, 1 inch caliper) with mulch and claim materials cost.

Requirements

  • Tree from the approved Iowa native list on the application
  • Min 4 ft tall and 1 inch caliper at planting
  • Mulch 3 ft diameter, 2 inches deep, shredded wood or chips
  • Planting setbacks: 3 ft from utilities/fences/walks, 10 ft from overhead utilities, 15 ft from structures
  • Street right-of-way trees need a Street Tree Planting Permit first
  • Application within 30 days of planting with itemized receipt and photo
  • Materials only; no labor

The plan or design it asks for

Sketch of the proposed tree planting; tree location marked on a map in the application.

Make the plan in Sow

Draw the layout and build the plant list

Sow places plants on a photo of your yard and keeps a list of everything you add. Check City of Ames's rules for exactly what to submit.

Start a plan in Sow

How to apply

  1. 1Pick location, prepare sketch; get Street Tree Planting Permit if in right-of-way
  2. 2Call Iowa One Call
  3. 3Buy and plant tree with mulch
  4. 4Submit Survey123 application with receipts and photo within 30 days
  5. 5Check mailed

Timing and deadlines

not published

30 days from planting

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 See something out of date?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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