sfenvironment.org

Urban Forestry Management in San Francisco

Many people, organizations and government agencies manage the urban forest in San Francisco. City, state and federal agencies have a significant role in planting and tending trees throughout the city. Property owners manage trees on their property and some are responsible for adjacent street trees.

The Recreation & Park Department plants and maintains the trees in our parks and open spaces. The park and open space system can support trees that are not suitable for streets. Trees contribute to the beauty and functionality of parks and open spaces and serve a variety of recreational needs.

San Francisco's urban forest currently has about 108,000 street trees. The Department of Public Works (DPW) plants and maintains one third of these trees while private citizens maintain the remaining two thirds. DPW requires permits to remove or plant a street tree or at a DPW-maintained location when done by anyone other than the City. DPW also maintains roughly 205 acres of right-of-way, including landscaped medians, and repairs sidewalks around DPW-maintained trees.

Friends of the Urban Forest (FUF) play a crucial role in planting and establishing street trees. FUF brings neighbors together to select and plant appropriate trees. This culminates in a tree planting party and potluck. Neighbors pledge to water and mulch trees while FUF staff and volunteers provide pruning and help.

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