Trees do more than beautify our neighbourhoods – they help clean our air, store carbon, manage rainwater, and cool our city. With nearly 40% of Ottawa’s urban land privately owned, residents play a key role in growing our tree canopy.
In 2026, Plant Your Place! will double the numbers of trees planted by supporting the planting of approximately 2,500 trees on private land through two program streams:
- City-Wide Tree Distribution (2,400 trees)
- Full-Service Tree Planting in Priority Areas (100 trees)
City-Wide Tree Distribution
The City-Wide Tree Distribution stream will provide 2,400 trees to residents, free of charge, for planting on private property. Trees will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, with a phased launch that prioritizes residents in Wards containing Priority Areas, based on the City of Ottawa’s Tree Equity Score Analysis. The program launch will be phased as follows:
- March 2, 2026 at 9:00 a.m.: Registration opens to residents living in Wards that contain a Priority Area (Wards 7, 10, 11, 14, 16, 18, 24)
- March 9, 2026 at 9:00 a.m.: Registration opens to residents in all Wards City-wide
Residents may apply for one tree per planting address by registering online. Eligible residents can choose from 16 different tree species, typically 1.5 to 2.5 metres tall. Trees must be picked up and planted by the participant, as well as the ongoing care and maintenance of their tree after receiving it. Participants will receive information and resources to support its growth and health.
Full-Service Tree Planting in Priority Areas
The Full-Service Tree Planting stream will provide professional site visits and tree planting at no cost for planting on private residential properties in the Priority Areas for tree planting. In 2026, there are 100 trees available. This stream is designed to reduce barriers and prioritize tree planting where it is needed most, based on the City of Ottawa’s Tree Equity Score Analysis. Professional site visits and tree planting are included to ensure the right tree is chosen for the right location, giving each tree the best chance to thrive.
Plant Your Place! is delivered in partnership with EnviroCentre. To find out more and to apply, please visit www.plantyourplace.ca.