Over 800 applications for the 2022 Residential Re-leaf were received; the draw has taken place and vouchers have been mailed. Stay tuned for announcements on Residential Re-Leaf in 2023.

Residential Re-Leaf 2022

The Residential Re-Leaf program allows homeowners within the City of St. John’s to apply for a $200 voucher towards the purchase of a tree to plant on their property.
 
The Residential Re-Leaf program aims to enhance the streetscape and increase the presence of trees within the city by encouraging property owners to plant trees on their property. This initiative also helps the City achieve its goal of enhancing the existing urban forest by planting trees in residential areas throughout the city and educating residents on the benefits urban trees provide.
 
In 2016, in partnership with Tree Canada and TD Green Streets, the City of St. John’s initiated the Community Roots tree planting program. Through this program 161 trees were planted on residential properties throughout the city. In 2019, the City relaunched the program under the title ‘Residential Re-Leaf’. The program received a tremendous response from St. John’s residents, resulting in 146 trees being planted across the city.

Requirements

In order to obtain a tree voucher, you must:

• Own the property where the tree is to be planted or provide written permission from the owner.
• Ensure you have a suitable planting location that provides sufficient room to support mature tree growth and will not present any future sightline issues or utility conflicts.
• Plant adjacent to the street, either at the front or the side of the property, is preferred however backyard planting is permitted where other options do not exist.

Apply

If you’re able to meet these conditions and would like to apply you’ll need to submit an application. Applications will be accepted from Mon. June 13 to 4 p.m. on Fri. June 24, 2022. Eligible application will be entered into a draw. Successful applicant will receive their voucher by mail in early July.  

Applications can be submitted through either of the following methods:
 

Commonly Asked Questions

Who can participate in the program?
This program is being offered to all residential property owners within the City of St. John’s.
 
What type of tree can I buy?
Different tree species possess different characteristics or attributes. Perhaps the most obvious example of this is trees with needles and cones, known as coniferous trees, vs. those with broader leaves that fall off in autumn, known as deciduous trees. Coniferous trees are great for blocking wind or providing privacy. Deciduous trees can provide shade during the summer but allow light through during the winter months. Within these two broad categories there are many other distinctions that you should be aware of before choosing a tree. Selecting the best species for the site is the most important step in planting a tree.
 
Here is a list of the trees available through the Residential Re-Leaf program and some of the key features and site requirements of each.
 
Participating Nurseries
Vouchers can be redeemed at either of the following, participating nurseries or garden centres. Each of these businesses offer a wide variety of trees, shrubs and other garden supplies. Their staff are knowledgeable of the characteristics of the species available and willing to provide advice in selecting a tree for your property.
 

Where should I plant?
Choosing the correct planting location may take some time and consideration but planting the right tree in the right place is the best step you can take to ensure success. Prior to purchasing your tree you’ll need to finalize the planting location.  In doing so, you’ll also need to consider the following:
 
In accordance with the program requirements, plnating trees adjacent to the street, either at the front or side of the property, is preferred however backyard planting is permitted where other options do not exist.

Your tree will grow. Be aware of the mature size of the species you’ve chosen, both in terms of height and spread, and ensure the location provides sufficient room, to accommodate mature growth.

Locate utilities both above and below grade. Applicants are responsible for ensuring it’s safe to dig in the chosen location. Utility locate requests can be submitted on-line, free of charge, via the following link Click Before You Dig. Overhead utility lines must also be considered when choosing a planting location. Further information regarding trees and power lines is available from Newfoundland Power.

Snow removal and storage can have a detrimental impact on trees. Therefore, all trees must be set back a minimum of 1.5 m from the curb/sidewalk to avoid damage during snow removal and to provide space for storage.

Most trees can withstand full sun exposure but not all are tolerant of shade. Be sure to check the favored site conditions for the species you’ve chosen. Also, trees planted in the right location can help save you money. For example, coniferous trees can help block cold winter winds, lowering your home heating costs. Deciduous trees can provide shade during the summer months, helping to keep your home cool.

How do I plant my tree?
It’s recommended that all applicants have their planting location chosen and their hole pre-dug before picking up their tree. This will ensure that once the tree is picked up and transported home that the planting site is ready. Please ensure that your planting hole is clearly identified when left unattended to avoid any safety concerns.
 
What if I cannot physically plant my tree?
It’ll be up to you to determine if you’re able to plant your tree. If you’re not, you could enlist the help of a friend or family member or hire someone to plant the tree for you.
 
What will this cost?
The initiative itself is free to all successful applicants. Each voucher covers up to $200 (including tax). You can also purchase a more expensive tree however you’ll be responsible for all costs in excess of the $200 covered by the program voucher.
 
How many trees can a person/household apply for?
There is a limit of one tree per property.
 
What size trees are being supplied?
In the nursery trade there’s generally two methods for describing the size of a tree. For deciduous trees, size is determined by measuring the diameter near the base of the tree. Coniferous trees are a little different, their size is identified by height.
 
The cost of a tree is generally determined by a combination of size and species. For $200 applicants will likely be able to purchase a tree that is approximately 35–40 mm in diameter or in the case of coniferous trees, 100 cm tall. While this may seem small to some, this is a great size for planting on residential properties. When trees are planted, they initially focus their energy on growing roots and establishing themselves in their new home. Smaller trees generally have a higher percentage of existing roots at the time of planting and therefore require less effort to become established. Smaller trees are also easier to transport and plant.
 
Will the City remove trees to facilitate planting?
The City of St. John’s will not remove healthy trees in order to plant new or different trees. However, trees that are either dead, diseased or hazardous may need to be removed and should be reported to the City by contacting Access St. John's.
 
How do I care for my tree?
Once your tree has been planted it’ll need your help to adjust to its new home. Watering, mulching and providing protection during winter greatly increases the likelihood of tree establishment. Visit our tree planting page for more advice on tree care.