Kirkland Will Pay You To Plant More Trees

KIRKLAND, WA — Kirkland has launched a new rebate program that gives property owners a new incentive to plant new trees and help improve the city's "umbrella." Property owners may be eligible for up to $150 in rebates per tree — up to $500 per property — if they complete a few simple steps before planting.

To qualify for a rebate, property owners must:

1. Complete the city's online tree planting course.
2. Sign a maintenance agreement.
3. Buy and plant a tree listed on the state's approved stormwater tree list. Trees must have a minimum mature height of 15 feet and a canopy width of at least 10 feet. Other trees may be approved on a case-by-case basis. To qualify for rebates, the city must approve the tree first.
4. After following the previous steps, residents must submit a form along with a photo of the planted tree and proof of payment.

Here are the other eligibility requirements:

• Trees must be planted within Kirkland City Limits.
• Trees must be planted on property you own. If you do not own the property (i.e. tenant or renter) you must obtain written permission from the owner to plant trees.
• Trees must be planted on your private property and not in the City right of way.
• Tree planting that is required to meet a condition of development, City Code, or permit is not eligible. Only voluntary tree planting is eligible for this rebate program.
• Tree rebates cannot be used to remove/replace existing trees on the property

City officials say planting trees is an easy way to increase shade and slow down rainfall before it hits the ground, along with broader benefits for the community.

"Trees help prevent flooding in our neighborhoods, provide shade for our homes, and help filter pollutants to provide clean water for Lake Washington. Trees catch rainfall on their leaves, needles, and branches, slowing the flow of rainwater. Their roots allow rainwater to more easily filter into the soil, and they absorb water and transpire it through their leaves or needles back into the atmosphere. As trees grow and mature, their environmental benefits increase. The larger canopies and root systems of mature trees can soak up rainwater runoff now, while planting new trees can help us in the long-term. This is why it is so important to retain existing trees in addition to planting new ones."

Read more about Kirkland's new tree planting rebate program on the city's website.