Branching Out Free Tree Program

Trees are an intrinsic part to the quality of life in Calgary. They provide a myriad of environmental benefits. They also contribute to positive mental well being. Trees help us connect with our communities.

Calgary’s tree canopy coverage is currently at 8.25%, this includes trees planted on both public and private property. The City is working to grow and expand our tree canopy coverage to 16%.

You can help through the annual Branching Out program.​ Trees are provided by the City of Calgary to residents at no cost.

The Branching Out Program is GROWING in 2023!

Urban Forestry recognizes an immediate need to increase tree canopy on private land within our city. We have seen canopy loss on private land over the past 10 years. In efforts to support this direction, this year there will be 2000 trees given away to residential homes within the City of Calgary city limits. 

2023 Program Details:

• Program registration opens on Monday, February 13 at 9:00 am. 

• Registration will be based on quadrants to help manage the increased number of applications this year. Your registration date is based on the quadrant in which your property sits. Registration for each quadrant will be open for 2 weeks, beginning on the dates below. You will not be able to register for a tree before the times specified below.

  • Northwest Calgary: February 13 - Update: Registration closed. All trees have been requested.

  • Southwest Calgary: Begins February 28.

  • Southeast Calgary: Begins March 15.

  • Northeast Calgary: Begins March 30.

• Each quadrant will be allocated 500 trees.

• Each resident will be able to register for up to 3 trees.

• You must complete the “Right Tree, Right Location” E-Learning module at the bottom of this page to access the registration form.

• Tree allotment is based on a first-come-first-served basis. Tree inventory is often fully allocated soon after registration opens.

Tree species

There are a limited number of trees given away each year and a limited number of species. For more information on each of these species go to Top Tree Species for Calgary.

Species that will be available for the 2023 Branching Out program include:

• Early Gold Pear

• Gladiator Rosybloom Crabapple

• Golden Spice Pear

• Lodgepole Pine

• Paper Birch

• Ponderosa Pine

• Royalty Flowering Crabapple

• Siberian Larch

• Spring Snow Crabapple

• Trembling Aspen

• Ussurian Pear

For info on how to plant and care for your tree, visit Citizen Owned Trees at calgary.ca/trees

Right Tree, Right Location

Want to plant a tree? Here's where to start: learn about tree types that work for you, choose the right location - and plant it safely in your yard.​

View the quick reference guide.

Underground Utilities

Remember to 'dial/click before you dig' a hole to plant your tree. A locate request will show you where utilities are located. Contact Utility Safety Partners by phone 1-800-242-3447 or online at utilitysafety.ca.