Trees are an essential part of the City of Venice. They help intercept and purify stormwater, reduce heat, and enhance the beauty of our urban landscape. Tree-lined streets not only provide these environmental benefits but also contribute to a more walkable and inviting city.

Residency: Applicants must live within the City of Venice.

Planting locations: Where appropriate, trees will be planted on City-owned or City-maintained rights-of-way. If you wish to plant a tree on County-maintained rights-of-way, you must first obtain written permission from Sarasota County. Please note that not all locations are suitable for planting due to utility lines or other infrastructure conflicts.

Tree care: Participants must follow the care instructions provided to ensure the tree’s survival. Newly planted trees will require watering 3 to 4 times per week for the first few months, followed by weekly watering for several more months.

Winter residents: If you will be away for an extended period during the first year after planting, you must have a plan for tree care while you are away.

Tree selection: A tree will be selected based on species availability, planting space, and potential utility conflicts. Trees utilized include live oak, green buttonwood, pink trumpet (limited availability) and “shady lady” black olive.

The City makes every effort to plant trees once a year; however, the planting schedule depends on overall program participation. You are welcome to invite your neighbors to participate.

For questions or more information, email City Arborist Jim Yelverton at jyelverton@venicefl.gov