Opt out | TreeBaltimore

Opt-out Form

Opt-out refers to the option to decline a new tree pit being created or a new tree being planted in a new location in the public right-of-way adjacent to your property. If a tree or tree pit was already there at some point, adjacent property owners may not reject replanting at any such location. This is according to City Code § 53-4(c).

TreeBaltimore Partners can share this page and form with neighbors if they are campaigning for the creation of tree pits or planting of trees where there was not one previously. See "QR Code" tab for a code you can use.

If you received a postcard or doorhanger, it means your address will be surveyed for potential plantable space in the adjacent public right of way.

General Timeline

Winter: Sites surveyed for spring planting
February: Sites selected and marked in white along the adjacent curb.
February 15 – March 15: Opt-out period
March – May: Trees planted
Next two growing seasons: Trees watered and maintained by contractors/partner

Summer: Sites surveyed for fall planting
August: Sites selected and marked in white along the adjacent curb.
August 15 – September 15: Opt-out period
September – November: Trees planted
NExt two growing seasons: Trees watered and maintained by contractors/partner

If you received this notification between January and March, you must fill out the opt-out form by March 15. If you received this notification between July and September, you must fill out the opt-out form by September 15.

What else should I consider? Sites are chosen to avoid utility conflicts and maximize tree canopy in the areas that need it most. We ask residents to consider the following benefits of trees: summer shade and cooling, reduced air and noise pollution, stormwater absorption, more walkable neighborhoods, slower traffic speeds, and stress reduction. Finally, BCRP Forestry will provide maintenance throughout the life of the tree and you can always request an inspection through 311.

Why are you planting street trees? Trees provide essential services for Baltimoreans and will be maintained by BCRP Forestry for the life of the tree.

Why are you planting in these neighborhoods? These neighborhoods have been identified as high-need for more tree canopy. Baltimore City has committed to 40% canopy across all neighborhoods.

Who will be planting the street trees? Forestry works with partner organizations as well as contractors to plant trees. Unless the organization’s name is indicated on the doorhanger, the tree will be planted by a BCRP contractor.

What kind of tree will be planted?
Trees will be chosen from the City’s Approved Street Tree Planting List and will be appropriate for the right-of-way site. Trees are selected to be low maintenance and drought tolerant, maximizing the benefits trees provide to the neighborhood while minimizing conflicts with existing infrastructure.

What happens if the tree dies?
If the tree dies during the two establishment years, it will be removed and replaced by the City’s contractor.

Can I have a tree planted in my yard?
This project is focused on planting trees in the public right-of-way. BCRP Forestry provides free yard trees to Baltimore Residents through our Yard Tree Adoption Program.