Request Planting of a New Tree

The City of St. Louis Forestry Division plants street trees in the City easement along public streets that is typically between the curb and the sidewalk. This area is called the tree lawn.

City residents can request a street tree at no charge for the tree lawn adjacent to their property by contacting the Citizens’ Service Bureau.

The planting of street trees is desirable and in the interest of the health, welfare, comfort and general well-being of all St. Louisans, because of the positive environmental, social and economic benefits trees provide. New street trees need to be planted to sustain the City’s street tree population as diseased and dangerous trees are removed. Many new street trees can be planted to enhance and expand the City’s street tree population as well.

• Review the common street trees planted by the Forestry Division. While suggestions are welcomed for tree selection, the Forestry Division has trained staff experienced in selecting a street tree best suited to the planting site. Therefore, tree selection and placement is at the discretion of the Forestry Division.
• Review the street tree placement guidelines:
  • Trees can only be planted in tree lawns that exceed 36 inches in width. Minimum growing space requirements for a street tree is 16 feet² (2304 in²). Therefore, a 36 inch wide (curb to sidewalk) tree lawn must also be 64 inches long. The minimum size for tree wells is 48 inches x 48 inches. Soil depth at the planting site must be workable to a minimum depth of 24 inches.
  • Minimum spacing between street trees is 35 feet for large canopy trees and 20 feet for small understory trees.
  • Street trees must be planted at least 20 feet from street corners and intersections, 5 feet from alley and driveway entrances, 5 feet from fire hydrants and at grade utilities that include sewer vents, water and gas shut offs and 15 feet from street and alley lights.

1. Start with the 'Begin Online' button below.
2. Complete the steps and submit the request.

Begin online Call 314-622-4800

You will receive an email with a request ID number.  

You can use the number to check the status of the service request.

Residents that want to plant, remove, prune, or treat trees in this tree lawn area themselves must first obtain a Tree Permit.

Without a permit, you may be subject to fines or fees. 

Learn more on the Forestry Division Tree Section.