Noblesville Tree Planting Grant

Arbor Day Tree Planting Event at Same As U, a 2024 grant recipient.

Program Overview

Tree canopy is important for a range of reasons, from stormwater mitigation to mental health. This program will help to enhance the tree canopy in Noblesville.  SMC Corporation has awarded the city funds to put towards the planting of trees in the community and the city matched the amount donated by SMC.  The grant is to provide trees that have the greatest chance of surviving and becoming mature.  Awarded project(s) for grantees should plan on planting trees on or near Arbor Day.

General Requirements

1. Projects will be awarded based on committee review using criteria to evaluate the following preferences:
2. Planting must be within Noblesville city limits and with an open space for a mature tree on non-public property.
3. Preference will be given to areas lacking quality canopy.
4. Private property with high visibility to the public such as property near high traffic road areas where a broader community will benefit. 
5. Locations at Institutional grounds such as faith, education, civic groups, and health institutions where many people will enjoy the increased green space. 
6. A project with location(s) with high likelihood of success (i.e. areas with no overhead or underground utility issues, areas not prone to high salt, adequate access to water, parking, enough space, areas not prone to wildlife browsing/damage to trees, etc.). 
7. Commitment to have dedicated volunteers for the day of planting.  Volunteers should be ready and willing to prepare the site, dig holes, plant trees, and have a watering plan in place.  A good estimate is three volunteers for each tree requested.   
8. Applicants will be required to have the site prepared and ready to go which includes utilities (call 811) being marked ten (10) days in advance. 

 
Tree requirements, selection, and number to request.  

1. Trees must be deciduous, noninvasive, long-term (lifespan greater than 12 years) canopy trees, rather than ornamental or screening (ex. coniferous trees).
2. Select trees from the City of Noblesville successful tree list that also meet the other criteria.
3. Total number of trees requested by applicants must be a minimum of five (5) but not to exceed twenty (20) trees.
4. Trees should be placed a minimum of 15 feet from homes and 10 feet from sidewalks or driveways.    

Grant Awards 

Applicants may apply for a minimum of five (5) trees and maximum of 20 trees. The trees will be 15–18-gallon size which are approximately six to eight feet tall. In addition to the trees, applicants will receive training and guidance from the Noblesville Tree Board which includes two certified arborists. The annual Arbor Day Proclamation may take place at a project site as well to celebrate.

The deadline to submit a grant application for Spring 2025 has passed.

The application manual is meant to be used as a reference while completing the Tree Planting Grant Application Form. To apply online, click here.