Our Mission

To responsibly manage and expand Detroit's urban forest through equitable tree planting, proactive maintenance, environmental stewardship, and community partnerships that create healthier, safer, and more resilient neighborhoods.

What We Do

The Forestry Division is responsible for managing trees located on City-owned property and within the public right-of-way. Our team works year-round to expand Detroit's tree canopy, maintain public trees, respond to tree-related concerns, and improve neighborhoods through sustainable urban forestry practices.

Our work includes:

• Planting new trees throughout Detroit 
• Maintaining and trimming City-owned trees 
• Responding to hazardous tree concerns 
• Removing dead or declining public trees 
• Supporting neighborhood beautification 
• Managing tree inventory and mapping 
• Partnering with residents and community organizations 
• Advancing Detroit's climate and sustainability goals 

Understanding Tree Ownership

Public Right-of-Way (ROW) Trees

The City generally maintains trees located:

• In the public right-of-way (berm) 
• Along City streets 
• In City parks 
• On other City-owned property 

Private Trees

Property owners are generally responsible for trees located:

• Inside private property lines
• Trees in alleyways - properties adjacent to these trees fall under the resident's responsibility for maintenance.
• In backyards 
• On privately owned vacant property 
• On commercial property 

What is a Berm?

A berm is the strip of land located between the sidewalk and the street.

Although residents often maintain the grass on the berm, it is generally part of the public right-of-way, making it the primary location for City street tree planting.

Servicing Your City Tree(s)

Fallen Trees After A Storm