Sandy Springs residents can qualify for free trees

A Sandy Springs homeowner can obtain up to three trees free for their front yards through NeighborWoods, a tree-planting initiative involving the city and Trees Atlanta. AJC FILE

A Sandy Springs homeowner can obtain up to three trees free for their front yards through NeighborWoods, a tree-planting initiative involving the city and Trees Atlanta. AJC FILE

Sandy Springs residents can request free trees as part of a newly announced partnership between the city and Trees Atlanta.

The City Council approved the adoption of NeighborWoods, a program in which residents can receive up to three shade trees to plant in the front yards of their homes, within 35 feet of the right-of-way, officials said.

There’s no cost to homeowners, but they’ll be responsible for maintaining the trees. The trees must be planted between October and March. The effort, officials said, is part of the city’s Next Ten Comprehensive Land Use Plan, “and in keeping with the city’s commitment to sustaining its tree canopy.”

Sandy Springs allocated $50,000 for initial plantings, with each 15-gallon tree estimated to cost $250. The cost includes a one-on-one consultation with a Trees Atlanta staff member, planting, pruning and pest/fertilizer treatment as necessary. Program funding comes from the city's tree fund. Information: https://bit.ly/2wNP3ZB