Neighborhood Tree Watch Program

Planting and caring for trees are among the most valuable investments we make in our community. Trees enhance property values, slow storm water runoff, clean air, shade sidewalks, streets, homes and yards, and accentuate community identity.

The Neighborhood Tree Watch Program encourages citizens to serve as stewards to protect the trees in their neighborhoods.

The purpose of the Neighborhood Tree Watch Program is to:
1. teach citizens to identify the "protected" tree species and Grand Trees
2. provide citizens with a better understanding of Tampa's regulations and codes applicable to neighborhood trees
3. assist in identifying violations involving the removal or trimming of protected or grand trees
4. provide continuing education on pruning, tree biology, planting (right tree in right place) to associations members

The program is administered through THAN and implemented by the neighborhood associations throughout the City of Tampa.

How to Start a Neighborhood Tree Watch Program in Your Community?

Tampa's Neighborhood Tree Watch Program promotes awareness of our urban forest through advocacy, education and action.

The Neighborhood Tree Watch Program is organized just like a Neighborhood Crime Watch program. To start your Neighborhood Tree Watch Program, follow these four easy steps:

Step 1
Recruit and organize as many volunteers as possible.

Step 2
Designate a Coordinator, who will serve as the main point of contact for your neighborhood and hold regular meetings in conjunction with your neighborhood association meetings.

Step 4
Register your group with the City of Tampa Parks & Recreation Department, Natural Resources & Forestry Team, (813) 274-5166.

Step 5
Order your Neighborhood Tree Watch sign.

No arboreal expertise is necessary. Volunteers will receive training from the City of Tampa Parks and Recreation Department that will include familiarization of the City's Landscaping, Tree Removal and Site Clearing Ordinance (Chapter 13), tree species identification, proper pruning cuts, as well as and citizen urban forestry training.