Spring 2026 Applications are now open!
program overview
EcoAction Arlington is dedicated to expanding Arlington’s tree canopy through our tree planting program. This program was launched in 2007 with support from Arlington County and funding from the Arlington County Tree Canopy Fund. Today we have expanded this effort with the support of other generous funders with a new initiative that focuses on addressing tree inequity.
If sufficient funding is available, we offer two planting cycles annually: Spring and Fall. All private property in Arlington—whether it’s a single-family home, townhouse, condo, or a place of worship—is eligible for a native tree planted on your property.
**Please note that public properties like schools and parks do not qualify for this program.*
Our Process
Phase 1
Preparing for your application
- Review applicant responsibilities and program overview.
- Review our Tree Planting Program Species List
- Review our Tree Canopy Equity Program Species List
- Tree Steward Request Form
- Checklist for your tree application
- Tree Planting Program Guidelines
Phase 2
Completing your application
Residents of single-family homes and townhomes may apply for up to 2 trees and/or shrubs*.
Other properties, including apartments, condos, and places of worship, may apply for up to 10 trees and/or shrubs*.
- 2026 Spring Planting Program Application
- 2026 Spring Tree Canopy Equity Program Application (see note below)
- Tree Planting Program Guidelines
- Resources for completing your application
NOTE: *Shrubs are only available through the Tree Canopy Equity Program. The equity program application is for residents of the following neighborhoods only: Arlington Mill, Arlington View, Aurora Highlands, Barcroft, Buckingham, Columbia Heights, Glebewood, Glencarlyn, Green Valley, John M Langston, Long Branch Creek, Penrose, and Radnor/Ft. Myer Heights.***
Phase 3
Planting and Maintenance
- A contractor will plant all trees approved by the review committee.
- The property owner is responsible for watering the tree.
Watch and Learn about Tree Care from our Tree Stewards
For more information or additional support
TREE Planting pathways:
If you live in one of the neighborhoods listed in the blue box below, apply with the Tree Canopy Equity Program. Otherwise, apply with the Tree Planting Program.
- Arlington Mill
- Arlington View
- Aurora Highlands
- Barcroft
- Buckingham
- Columbia Heights
- Glebewood
- Glencarlyn
- Green Valley
- John M Langston
- Long Branch Creek
- Penrose
- Radnor/ Ft.Myer Heights
Tree Canopy Equity Program
Recognizing the need for environmental justice and wanting to address the disparities in tree coverage across the county, we created the Tree Canopy Equity Program. This initiative focuses on planting in civic associations where sustained efforts can make the most impact to improve health and quality of life. We aim to ensure that everyone in Arlington County can enjoy the benefits of a greener, healthier community.
Tree Planting Program
Since 2007, with the approval of the Arlington County Board, this initiative has been a collaboration between EcoAction Arlington and the Arlington County Forestry and Natural Resources Commission. Over the years, we have successfully planted more than 3,800 trees!
Applying for the Tree Canopy Fund could get you a 5% credit on your stormwater utility bill!
Trees help stormwater management by intercepting rainfall and reducing stress on the stormwater system. Large canopy trees planted through the Arlington County Tree Canopy Fund are eligible for a 5% stormwater utility credit. Eligibility is based on the native tree being 1” caliper, and the number of trees required to receive credit varies from 1 to 4 trees.
WATCH THIS VIDEO
From Application to Planting with Wilma Jones, Tree Canopy Equity Program Recipient