The City of Port Angeles is excited to announce the return of the City Shade Street Tree Program for 2025! Developed by community member Paul Forrest, this volunteer-centric program aims to increase our community’s tree canopy by planting trees in residential neighborhoods.
Now in its third year, the City Shade Street Tree Program invites residents to request up to two (2) free trees through an online application process. These trees will be strategically planted within the public right-of-way, typically between the sidewalk and curb.
Approximately 115 trees will be available this fall, following the City’s Arbor Day Celebration. Ten species are being offered this year, including the:
- Galaxy Magnolia (Magnolia x 'Galaxy')
- Japanese Stewartia (Stewartia pseudocamellia)
- Peking Lilac (Syringa pekinensis)
- American Hornbeam 'Firespire' and 'Native Flame' (Carpinus caroliniana)
- Japanese Snowbell and 'Snowcone' Japanese Snowbell (Styrax japonica)
- Black Tupelo 'Wildfire', 'Red Splyndor' and 'Green Gable' (Nyssa sylvatica)
Trees will be approximately 1.5 inches in diameter at four inches above the base, roughly six feet tall, and weigh an average of 75 pounds. Each tree will arrive in a #16 fabric planting bag. Planting will be completed by the applicant, who may request assistance from City Shade volunteers in advance. Weekly watering during the first two summers, pruning, and leaf raking will also be the applicant’s responsibility.
Apply Now – Receive Up to Two Free Street Trees!
Those interested can apply now through August 8, 2025. City staff will review planting sites and work with applicants to offer species appropriate for that location’s size, soil conditions, and existing utilities. Preference will be given to households who have not previously received a street tree as part of this program.
Join Us – Become a Volunteer!
Community members can also apply to volunteer with the program. Volunteers will play a vital role in supporting tree planting and maintenance efforts, including helping out with distribution in October.
Important Dates
- July 1: Application window opens
- August 8: Last day to submit your application for free street trees
- October 3: Applicants will be notified of application approval by this day
- October 25: Arbor Day Celebration and Community Tree Planting Event
Together, we can make Port Angeles a more beautiful, healthy, and vibrant place to live! To learn more and apply, please visit cityofpa.us/StreetTreeProgram. Interested residents may also contact the Department of Community & Economic Development at (360) 417-4570 or ced@cityofpa.us.