Questions? We're here to help.

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What is the Swale Tree Planting Program?
It’s a voluntary program offering residents one free permitted shade tree to be planted in the swale area in front of their residence. The goal is to support Plantation’s urban canopy, protect stormwater systems, and enhance our Tree City USA status.

What is a swale, and why do trees help?
A swale is the shallow grassy area between the sidewalk and street designed to manage stormwater.
Planting a tree in the swale helps:

• Absorb rainwater
• Cool the neighborhood
• Strengthen the soil
• Increase shade and canopy coverage
• Provide aesthetics

Who is eligible?
Any property owner within the City of Plantation with an appropriate swale area may apply. Renters may participate with written owner approval.

Who plants the tree?
City staff will plant your tree in the designated swale location.

What if the tree dies or gets sick?
The homeowner is responsible for treatment, replacement, or removal if needed.

Can I ask the City to remove or move the tree later?
No. After planting, the tree becomes private responsibility. Any removal or relocation is the homeowner’s responsibility, at their cost, and must follow City codes.

How long does it take to get my tree?
Applications are processed on a rolling basis. Planting dates depend on staffing, weather, and tree availability.

Can I modify the swale around the tree?
Only basic maintenance (mowing, light edging) is allowed. Major changes—like rocks, berms, walls, or grading—require City approval to protect drainage.

What if I sell my home?
The responsibility for the tree transfers to the new property owner. City of Plantation Code of Ordinances Sec. 27-260. - Tree Care and Maintenance Standards—All Properties.

Tree Specifications:

• Florida Fancy #1 grown trees
• 25-30 gallon container grown
• Tree height varies from 8' feet to 12' feet overall

Who can I contact with questions?
Public Works Department – City of Plantation
Phone: 954-452-2535
Email: Askpublicworks@plantation.org

FPL Tips and Information

Find the Right Tree: Trees come in all shapes and sizes, and often change dramatically over their lifetimes. Some grow tall, some grow wide and some have extensive root systems. 

Choose the Right Spot:  If you’re planting trees on your property, look up and note the location of power lines. Before you plant, keep in mind the setback dimensions in our diagram. Think about how your tree will impact existing utility lines as it grows taller, wider and deeper. Keeping trees away from power lines means that, in the event they blow over or tree limbs become loose, they’re much less likely to hit a power line and knock out power.

Keep transformers clear: Keep the transformer cabinet (green box often found in front of homes) clear at all times to allow for maintenance and repairs. Maintain a “clear zone” of 8 feet in the front and 3 feet in the back and on both sides. 

Stay safe around power lines: If you have trees and plants growing near power lines on your property, hire a qualified professional to perform trimming work. Do not take it upon yourself to perform any work near power lines. Whether you're planting a tree, preparing your property for storm season or picking fruit, remember to stay safe and stay far away from power lines at all times.

Always keep yourself and any object you are holding at least 10 feet from main and neighborhood power lines and 30 feet from higher voltage transmission lines. You can be seriously hurt or worse, should you or anything you are touching come into contact with a power line.