Check list for Neighborhood Tree Planting Projects

Tree plan must be submitted to Public Works for review and should contain the following elements:

  1. A drawing or sketch with the type of trees
    Examples: Scanned Image, PDF, Digital Image, Google Image
  2. A sample notification letter to the residents impacted by the proposed plan
  3. An estimated schedule for the project

The criteria for which the plan will be evaluated by Public Works include:

  • Selection of accepted species of trees based on the city’s tree plan, trees.nashville.gov
  • Evaluation of the mature tree’s characteristic height and width and the intended use determine the final spacing requirements
  • Identification of any potential hazards, overhead and underground utilities, sidewalks and wheel chair accessibility, driveway locations, other landscape features, tree lawn widths, signage conflicts, streetlights, visibility hazards, and land use patterns
  • No raised planter box or anything that impedes the free flow of water will be installed at any time around the tree
  • Tree planting of any type shall be prohibited within ten (10) feet of a drain inlet, fire hydrant, and/or utility box
  • Root barriers are required in areas where sidewalks are currently in place
  • Once a tree is planted the applicant is responsible for watering. Provide a good and even deep soaking immediately after planting and daily for the next two weeks. For the next three years, water trees weekly during growing months. The goal is to establish deep roots so moisten the soil to a depth of 10". Keep the soil moist, not soggy. After three years, monitor and water trees during times of drought.
  • If a tree dies within three years of being planted the applicant is responsible for its removal

If the plan is approved, the applicant must complete the following list prior to beginning work:

  • Notification of impacted residents
  • Tennessee One Call, Dial 811, must be contacted and utilities marked prior to beginning work
  • Selection of an excavation, landscape contractor or the applicant to excavate the holes
  • Permits to work in the right of way must be obtained from the Public Works Permit Office by the applicant prior to beginning the project, 615-862-8782
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