The Neighborhood Canopy Program is an incentive to

encourage homeowners to plant and maintain canopy trees.

The City of Sarasota Tree Mitigation Fund will cover up to $500.00

of the cost of the tree once the $100.00 minimum deposit has been met. 

Program Details:

• Residents will own the tree.
• Residents are responsible for watering and pruning maintenance. Seasonal residents must make arrangements for watering.
• Selections will be limited to the list of approved trees. Palms are not included.
• Minimum tree size is 2" caliper. Grade #1 minimum.
• In accordance with the right tree, right location principle, planting location must be between the right-of-way and front plane of the house.
• Planting under utility wires will not be allowed in most cases.
• Residents are limited to one tree, per property, per calendar year. 

Approved Tree List for Spring 2024:

• Magnolia
• Bald Cypress
• Southern Red Cedar
• Holly
• Pink Tabebuia

March 3, 2024 last day to submit the minimum deposit of $100.00 to participate in the Spring session.

Planting for the Spring session begins March 25, 2024

Approved Tree List for Fall 2024:

• Live Oak
• Green Buttonwood
• Royal Poinciana
• Ligustrum
• Orange Geiger

August 23, 2024 last day to submit the minimum deposit of $100.00 to participate in the Fall session. 

Planting for the Fall session begins September 3, 2024.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How do I participate?

Please contact the vendor, Mast Landscaping, by emailing NeighborhoodCanopyProgram@Sarasotafl.gov or calling 941-487-8849.

Who will select the tree?

The homeowner will select from the vendor's list of available species. Please refer to the list of approved trees.

Whos is responsible for the care/maintenance of the tree?

The homeowner owns and is responsible for the tree. The vendor will provide general information about care and maintenance. A Quick Guide for Tree Planting for Homeowners (ufl.edu)

Can the homeowner purchase and plant a tree themselves?

The City Vendor must be used.

What is the vendor payment process?

The homeowner deposits $100 with the vendor. The balance of payment per tree planting occurs between the vendor and the City.

Will planting be in the right-of-way or on private property?

Planting will occur between the right-of-way and the front plane of the house.

How do I determine the location of the right-of-way?

The vendor will assist in the location.

What is the survival requirement?

If a tree dies, the homeowner is responsible to replace it without further assistance from the City.

If root barriers are required, who pays for it?

"Right tree/right location" will dictate tree species and location, thereby preventing the need for root barriers.

If the tree requires removal by the City to address underground utility issues will the tree be replaced and who pays for it?

Homeowner has the responsibility. 

 If you have further questions or concerns, please contact Donald.Ullom@Sarasotafl.gov or Jacqueline.Hartley@Sarasotafl.gov