Tree Replacement Program

If you have an empty tree basin on your property, we can help you obtain a healthy new replacement tree to fill the spot.

Simply print out and complete the FUF Letter of Agreement and DPW Tree Planting Application forms and mail the completed forms, along with a check for $105 per tree, plus $30 FUF membership, to:

The Friends of the Urban Forest
ATTN: REPLACEMENT PLANTING
1007 General Kennedy Ave Ste 1
San Francisco CA 94129-1405

The replacement cost includes the tree, the stakes and ties, volunteers to help plant the tree, and 2 follow up visits to check tree health in the first 18 months. Additional details here.

Once we receive the forms and check, we will contact you about the logistics of the planting. We generally conduct replacement plantings monthly, and will work with you to coordinate an appropriate time.

If you need to first remove an old tree from your basin:

  1. Obtain a city permit to remove the tree. The City states that a permit is required before any tree – alive, dead or hazardous – can be removed. Visit DPW's site for more information.
  2. Please be sure your deceased tree and all its roots have been removed (a minimum of 18” below sidewalk level in most cases) before we come to plant your new tree. Please take a few minutes with a shovel and prod into the hole to make sure there is no wood down there. If there are still roots there on the day of planting we will be unable to plant your tree. Please see our list of stump removal and stump grinders whom we recommend. They typically do their work during the Street Cleaning hours of your block.

For more information about replacement plantings, please contact Derek at 415.561.6890, ext.100.