Native plants and pollinator habitat · North Carolina

City of Raleigh Buffer Builder Bag Program

Run by City of Raleigh Stormwater

SeasonalLast checked October 17, 2026
What you get
Free bag of 20-25 native shrub and tree seedlings plus planting and maintenance guides
Who qualifies
Owners of residential, commercial or public property in Raleigh with at least 50 feet of stream or a drainage-way that outlets directly into a stream (residential qualifies).
Where
Raleigh property owners with at least 50 feet of stream or a drainage-way that outlets to a stream.
Status
Seasonal. Spring 2026 and Fall 2026 application periods both closed as of 2026-10-17; page updated Aug 3 2026.
Type of payment
Free item
Official program page

What you do

Plant free native shrub and tree seedlings along a stream or drainage-way on your property to build a streamside buffer.

Requirements

  • At least 50 feet of stream or drainage-way outlet to a stream
  • Submit photos before planting, after planting, and after one year
  • Agree to care for seedlings until established
  • Complete a follow-up survey

How to apply

  1. 1Complete the Buffer Builder Bag Application before the season deadline (spring and fall seasons)
  2. 2Email [email protected] or call 919-996-3779 with questions (24-48 hour response)
  3. 3Staff confirm eligibility; pick up and plant seedlings
  4. 4Send photos and survey

Timing and deadlines

not published

Season application deadlines; next period not published

Combining it with other programs

Related to Raleigh Stream Stabilization Program and Stream Bank Repair Workshops

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 See something out of date?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

More programs near the same area