Let Us Throw You Some Shade: Tree Planting Project

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Miami Beach “Throwing Shade” Canopy Tree Project - Made Possible by G.O. Bond Funding

From January 12 through March 31, the City of Miami Beach invites residents and businesses to identify where shade is most needed in public spaces adjacent to their property.

Tree plantings for the campaign are projected for summer through early fall 2026. Each tree will be planted, helping to increase the city’s urban tree canopy. Canopy trees provide many environmental, social, and economic benefits for the community, including:

Shading pedestrians and cyclists, making streets more walkable and bike-friendly
Lowering surrounding temperatures and reducing the urban heat island effect
Reducing direct sunlight on buildings, lowering indoor temperatures and air conditioning costs
Improving drainage and reducing flooding by absorbing rainwater through their roots
Supporting biodiversity by offering food and shelter for local wildlife
Enhancing the beauty of public spaces and promoting mental and physical health
Increasing curb appeal and real estate value
Improving air quality

The city will install and maintain your tree for the first three months, with a one-year warranty on the tree itself. After that, residents and businesses will take the lead on keeping the tree healthy. This includes:

Watering regularly after the first three months
Pruning routinely
Keeping the tree clear of obstructions

You can fill out an interest form to suggest locations for new trees in public spaces next to your property.

Click here for the interest form

FAQs

What is the “Let Us Throw You Some Shade Tree Canopy Project”?

“Let Us Throw You Some Shade Tree Canopy Project”

The City of Miami Beach developed "Let Us Throw You Some Shade” as part of an effort to grow the city’s tree canopy, reduce heat and beautify neighborhoods. The city plans to plant hundreds of shade trees on public property in the right-of-way (ROW) in front of homes and along sidewalks. As a part of the project, we’re asking residents to help identify where new trees are most needed.

What constitutes “Public Spaces” or qualifying right-of-way (ROW)?

The right-of-way (ROW) is the public area between the street and your property line. In most neighborhoods, this includes sidewalks and grassy strips (commonly called swales). Pursuant to City Code, property owners are responsible for basic upkeep, such as mowing the grass or watering new trees. Trees for this program will only be planted in the ROW, not in private yards.

How do I request a tree? Fill out survey form.

You can fill out an interest form to suggest locations for new trees in public spaces next to your property. The survey will be open from January 12 through March 31. If your site is eligible, city staff may follow up to confirm planting logistics.

Click here for the interest form

Is this program free?

The tree, planting, and first 3 months of maintenance are fully covered by the City of Miami Beach through General Obligation Bond (G.O. Bond) funding, your tax dollars at work. After the first 3 months, residents and businesses take ownership of the tree to help it thrive.

What type of trees will be planted?

Tree list for properties with overhead wires:

Bulnesia (Verawood)
Crape Myrtle
Dahoon Holly
Pigeon Plum
Powderpuff
Silver Buttonwood
Simpson Stopper
Spanish Stopper

Additional tree options for properties with no overhead wires:

Green Buttonwood
Gumbo Limbo
Live Oak
Wild Tamarind

Who maintains the tree after planting?

The City of Miami Beach will maintain the tree for the 3 months after it's planted (warranty included). After that, the responsibility shifts to the adjacent property owner. Ongoing care includes watering, pruning, and keeping the tree clear of obstructions. The City of Miami Beach will provide tree care guidance and resources to residents and businesses.

Can I choose the type of tree?

While you won’t be able to select the exact species, you can provide tree preferences from a pre-approved list, and the city will choose a tree that is best suited for your location. Considerations for placement include analysis of space, overhead wires, underground utilities, and site conditions to make sure your tree thrives.

When will the trees be planted?

Planting is expected in summer 2026 after city staff have collected survey feedback, reviewed locations, and prepared planting plans. If your site is selected, we’ll be in touch before planting begins.

What are the benefits of having a tree on the ROW?

Trees in the right-of-way provide shade, reduce street temperatures, absorb stormwater, improve air quality, increase property values, and make neighborhoods more beautiful and walkable. A single shade tree can make a big difference in creating a cooler, more comfortable temperatures.