How can I get a tree?

Citizens who want a free tree must register for one using an online or a phone process.

Who qualifies for the program?

Any citizen living within the corporate limits of Oklahoma City is eligible for a tree. Trees are only available for private, residential properties, and not for businesses or public lands. There is a limit of one tree per household, and all registrant addresses will be verified and confirmed.

How do I know if I live within the Oklahoma City corporate limits?

Generally, if you are served by the Oklahoma City Police and Fire departments, and not the police or fire departments of another municipality, you live within the Oklahoma City corporate limits. A City water or utilities bill is not necessarily proof of residency.

All registrant addresses will be verified for eligibility and confirmation postcards will be sent after registration closes.

You can see if your residence is within the corporate limits of Oklahoma City by clicking on our WARD MAP.

What kinds of trees are available?

In general, trees offered are suitable for growing in Oklahoma’s climate and for planting in a residential setting. Ten different tree species will be available this fall. Individual trees are available on a first-come, first-served basis. You will be able to select your tree type when you register. Species include:

• Cedar Elm
• Chaste Tree (Vitex)
• Cherry Laurel
• Chinkapin Oak
• Desert Willow
• Shantung Maple
• Kentucky Coffee Tree
• Autumn Brilliance Serviceberry
• Desert Willow
• Nellie R. Stevens Holly
• Prairifire Crabapple

Species information and tree photos may be found here:  http://www.okc.gov/releaf/trees

How big are the trees?

At distribution, the trees are set in 3- to 5- gallon containers and range from 1/2” to ¾” caliper (diameter of trunk). Most trees should be able to fit inside a medium to large-sized car, small truck or SUV.

Flatbed trailers are not necessary to transport trees.

Can the tree be delivered to my home?

Unfortunately, no. The funds for this program are for the purchase of trees only. Citizens who qualify for a tree will need to pick it up during the designated distribution period.

How do I know if I will get a tree?

Registrants will receive a postcard in the mail within two weeks of the close of registration to confirm if they are: 

1. Eligible, and a tree will be reserved (confirmation number will be provided);
2. Not eligible due to residency requirements; or
3. Eligible for the “waiting list” of any unclaimed trees.

When can I pick the tree up?

Pick-up date: Saturday, October 29, 2011  
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

If you are not able to pick up your tree during the designated distribution period, you must make arrangements to have someone do it for you. Trees cannot be held past the Give-Away distribution time.

Where do I pick the tree up?

OSU-OKC Campus - Physical Plant Building
900 North Portland Ave., Oklahoma City
(just south of 10th Street on Portland Avenue)

What do I do when I pick the tree up?

To pick up your tree, please bring your confirmation postcard. If you do not have your confirmation card, you will be required to show a photo ID or other proof of residency.

If you are sending another person to pick up your tree for you, they will still need to bring the confirmation postcard or provide your confirmation number.

If you are physically unable to carry the tree to your car, volunteers will be available to assist.

Can I get more than one tree?

No. In order to reach as many citizens as possible, only one tree per household is allowed.

How do I plant my tree?

Each citizen will be provided with a copy of the City's Putting Down Roots tree care guide, which includes tree planting and care instructions.

In addition, Master Gardeners and local landscaping experts will be available answer citizen questions.

Remember, before planting any tree, citizens are asked to call Oklahoma One-Call System to mark the location of any buried utility lines: 1-800-522-OKIE.