Fort Wayne Launches Annual Tree Planting Program

Residents can apply to have a street tree planted for $50 through the city's Citizen Match Program.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation is now accepting applications for its annual citizen-match tree planting program. Residents can apply through July 1 to have a 6 to 10 foot tall street tree with a 1 to 1.5-inch diameter planted for $50 upon application approval. The trees will be planted between October 1 and December 31 in the public park strip, not on private property.

Why it matters

The Citizen Match Program aims to invest in neighborhood infrastructure and community life by increasing the city's tree canopy. Trees provide environmental benefits like reducing energy costs and improving air quality, while also making streets more walkable and encouraging outdoor activity and neighborhood pride.

The details

Fort Wayne residents can apply for the Citizen Match Program through the city's Parks and Recreation department. The application includes guidelines on where the trees can be planted within the public park strip. The trees will be between 6 to 10 feet tall with a diameter of 1 to 1.5-inches and will be planted between October 1 and December 31.

  • The application period is open through July 1, 2026.
  • The trees will be planted between October 1 and December 31, 2026.

The players

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation

The department overseeing the Citizen Match tree planting program in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

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What’s next

Residents interested in the program can fill out the application online or visit the Lawton Park office to submit a paper copy by the July 1 deadline.

The takeaway

Fort Wayne's Citizen Match tree planting program provides an opportunity for residents to partner with the city to increase the local tree canopy and foster more vibrant, walkable neighborhoods through a relatively low-cost investment.