Tree lined street

Urban Forestry Program

About our City trees


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Raleigh's Tree of the Year Tree Service Request Tree Impact Permit Donor Tree Program Tree Planting Crape Myrtle Bark Scale

The city manages trees on public property including the street rights of way, parks, greenways, and other city-owned or controlled property.

The Urban Forestry Division has proudly made the City of Raleigh a Tree City USA for over 30 years. 

Our Mission

The City of Raleigh Urban Forestry Division shall plant, manage, and protect trees on city properties maximizing the environmental, economic and social benefits the urban forest provides while managing risk through safe, purposeful and efficient work, effective permitting and oversight, and through cooperative partnerships.

People walking down Fayetteville Street

People walking down Fayetteville Street in downtown Raleigh.

Benefits of the Urban Forest

  • Increase property values
  • Improve air and water quality
  • Reduce heating and cooling costs
  • Decrease stormwater runoff and pollution
  • Increase public health and wellness by promoting physical activity, reducing stress, and lowering asthma risks

Raleigh's Tree of the Year

Red lace-leaf Japanese Maple

Congratulations to Raleigh's 2023 Tree of the Year.

From the nominator:

Red lace-leaf Japanese Maple at the JC Rauslton Arboretum. - Acer palmatum Dissectum Atropurpureum Group - This tree is the emblem of the JC Raulston Arboretum

Raleigh's Tree of the Year program celebrates Arbor Day and all things trees!

Tree Service Request

A large green tree

To request street tree service for pruning, removal, or planting, complete our online tree service request form.

Worried about tree roots impacting your sidewalk? Email Transportation Field Operations if you have any questions.

Tree Impact Permit

A Tree Impact Permit is needed for any work that occurs on or near a city tree.

View additional information, including how to apply for a Tree Impact Permit.

Donor Tree Program

Large tree surrounded by stone patio and benches.

Donation programs offer opportunities for community citizens to partner with the City of Raleigh to donate resources for the enhancement of City of Raleigh parkland. Individuals and groups are able to donate funds for trees. 

Tree Planting

Park volunteers planting tree in the ground

Planting a tree is the best way to make sure we have a healthy and diverse urban forest for future generations.

Learn more about planting benefits, tips, and opportunities.

Crape Myrtle Bark Scale

an image of the bark of a crape myrtle tree

Crape myrtle bark scale is a new pest to crape myrtles that we have seen throughout Raleigh. Urban Forestry does not fertilize, perform pest management or provide supplemental water to established trees.

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