If you live in Palo Alto to request that a Public Street Tree be planted in the City's right-of-way at your residence please contact the Urban Forestry Section at (650) 496-5953.

Urban Forestry Section staff will inspect the available sites at the location to determine if a new tree can be supported. In some cases factors such as a restricted planting area, proximity to underground utilities, or overhead utilities conflicts may prevent a site from being planted.

South Palo Alto residents can also request a tree as part of the South Palo Alto Tree Initiative. Web Link

The roots of the lovely City of Palo Alto trees can grow into the sprinkler pipes which the City does not cover the cost of new sprinkler equipment. I just paid $670 for replacement. Also, if the tree falls over on a person's house, does the City cover the cost of replacing the house or part of the house?

So long as no one is promoting the planting of messy ginko trees.

Trees that drop leaves (deciduous) should be discouraged to eliminate the need for leaf blowers and/or rakes.

Planting palm trees along various city streets would give Palo Alto a SoCal/Palm Springs vibe and requires no water.

I would suggest people don’t plant more Redwoods unless in the foggy hills. A better choice around here is the beautiful big Incense Cedar that is not a water hog.

Happy for this column. Trees are vital for beauty, health and to combat climate change.

By the way - the Palo Alto program to get a free tree planted is for south Palo Alto (south of Oregon/Page Mill) where there are far fewer trees than north PA.
The City has a goal of 10,000 new trees in 10 years. And it’s not just street trees (city owned), it’s for private property too - in your yard.

Does PA also offer fruit-bearing trees?

Good point Ms. Templeton...my great-parents had a basic philosophy regarding trees. If a tree is incapable of bearing edible fruit or are unsuitable for lumber, don't bother planting them.