FAQs

Ask away!

Questions about TreesCharlotte? You’ve come to the right place! TreesCharlotte is a 501(c)3 created as a public/private collaboration dedicated to planting trees, primarily through volunteer efforts. With many working parts involved, there are naturally many questions about this endeavor. If your specific question is not addressed here, please contact us.

 

ABOUT TREESCHARLOTTE

Is TreesCharlotte a division of city government?
No. TreesCharlotte is an independent 501(c)3 non-profit that partners with the city of Charlotte. We rely on donations to fund our operation and on volunteers to help us plant and give away trees. The city of Charlotte has provided headquarter space for TreesCharlotte at its Landscape Management office and supports our operations with arborists, landscape design, planning support and capital.
I’m a taxpayer in Charlotte. Why should I support TreesCharlotte in addition to the taxes I pay?
The city of Charlotte is only permitted to care for trees on city property and along city-owned streets. TreesCharlotte, however, can facilitate plantings on non-city property, including neighborhood common areas, churches and schools. Because we engage volunteers to plant and care for trees, we’re able to stretch our donation dollars. TreesCharlotte is a unique legacy project for our community.
I live in Mecklenburg County but outside of city of Charlotte limits. Am I eligible to get trees from TreesCharlotte?
Because we partner with the city of Charlotte, we limit our plantings and tree giveaways to Charlotte residents only. At each giveaway event, we require proof of Charlotte residency, such as a license or water bill.
What kind of trees do you plant and give away?
We start with the city’s approved tree list (about 60 species) and then work with three N.C. growers and their inventory. Our trees are natives or known to thrive in the region. By the time we get them, they are 2-4 years old and in 7-gallon containers. Species range from canopy-builders such as oaks and maples to flowering trees such as dogwoods and cherries.
Does TreesCharlotte prune or remove trees?
As a general rule, we do not. Occasionally we will return to a community planting and lead volunteers in a simple pruning. We suggest private landowners to contact an ISA-certified arborist for pruning and removal work.

 

VOLUNTEER

How can I get involved in TreesCharlotte?

TreesCharlotte benefits from strong community support and has engaged more than 19,000 volunteers since 2012. If you want to join us, consider volunteering to plant trees or becoming a TreeMaster or TreeAmbassador who represents TreesCharlotte at planting and outreach events.

Second, consider making a donation to TreesCharlotte. We rely entirely on donations from individuals, foundations and corporations to build our urban canopy.

Third, spread the word about TreesCharlotte to your friends and neighbors. 

Lastly, plant a tree in your yard and water and care for the trees you have – you and they will benefit! Tree care advice can be found on our Resources page.

 

DONATE

How do I make a donation to TreesCharlotte?

Donations to TreesCharlotte can be made with a credit card here or by sending a contribution to:

TreesCharlotte
701 Tuckaseegee Road
Charlotte, NC 28208

For gifts of securities, click here.

If your company is interested in sponsoring a TreesCharlotte event, please contact our executive director, Jane Singleton Myers.

 

TREE ORDINANCE

Does Charlotte have an ordinance to protect trees?

The tree ordinance requires developers to save at least 10-15% of a property’s tree canopy. In some cases, developers also have the option of paying into a mitigation fund, which goes toward purchasing and preserving wooded areas within the city limits.

 

HONORARIUMS

Do you plant trees in memory of loved ones that have passed away, or in honor a family member or co-worker?

TreesCharlotte’s TreeGifting program is the perfect way to celebrate the life of a special friend, colleague, or family member or to honor your family, friends, co-workers, or clients. Learn more about honoring someone with a tree. All gifted trees are planted at Charlotte-Mecklenburg schools. 

 

WHO DO I CALL WHEN ...

A tree along my street is damaged or dead?
The city of Charlotte oversees all “right-of-way” trees, otherwise known as street trees. Call the city’s Landscape Management office to see if the tree in question qualifies as a city-maintained tree: 704-336-4262, M-F, 7 a.m.-4 p.m
A tree is in conflict with a power line?
We suggest you start with Duke Energy: duke-energy.com/home
A neighbor's tree is infringing on my property?
Talk to your neighbor first. Have an ISA-certified arborist come look at the tree to determine options. Often times arborists are well informed regarding property lines, laws, etc., and can advise the best course of action for private property tree issues. If your neighbor is uncooperative or hostile, calling your attorney may be the best bet
To pick up tree limbs, logs and leaves?
The city’s solid waste department picks up yard waste weekly. Be sure to follow their guidelines to ensure the waste is properly prepped for pickup. 

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