Purpose: To improve air quality and streetscape aesthetics and mitigate storm water runoff by planting 15,000 new street trees per year and reforesting 2,000 acres of city parkland.

On April 30, 2008, the City Council adopted the Street Trees text amendment, which establishes a requirement for street tree planting and planting strips between the sidewalk and the curb.

The policy requires street trees to be planted in all zoning districts for all new developments, as well as enlargements and conversions where there is an increase or change of use in 20% or more of the floor area. One street tree is required for every 25 feet of street frontage of the zoning lot, with a minimum requirement of one street tree. The site owner is responsible for tree planting, and maintenance will be provided by the Department of Parks and Recreation.

Sidewalk planting strips are also required in lower-density residential zoning districts. The width of these strips is determined by the Department of Transportation, who sets standards for sidewalk paving and infrastructure installation within the sidewalk area.

Public Support & Opposition:

In response to concerns raised during the public review, amendments were made to the proposed text that eliminated the street tree and planting strip requirements for small enlargements of one- and two-family houses. Also, a compromise was made to allow owners to make a payment in lieu of planting a required tree. The Parks Department will use these payments to plant trees that fulfill the ordinance requirements.

During the public hearing, twenty speakers supported the ordinance and none opposed it.

Legal Issues:

This amendment was reviewed pursuant to the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA), and the City Environmental Quality Review (CEQR). After a study of the potential environmental impact of the proposed action, a Negative Declaration was issued.

Tree planting provides a number of environmental and aesthetic benefits to the city. Street trees help reduce the urban heat island effect by reducing glare and providing cool shade over paved roadways. Trees and vegetation filter the air, reducing pollution from particulates and carbon dioxide. Trees and sidewalk planting strips capture storm water, which reduces storm water runoff and strain on city sewers. Street trees and planting strips improve the character and appearance of neighborhood streetscapes, and soften otherwise continuous pavement, providing a buffer between pedestrians and roadways.

Through PlaNYC 2030, the Department of Parks and Recreation will receive $7.5 million to expand its tree maintenance program.