HomeMy WebLinkAboutDocumentation_Workshop_Tab 04_6/2/2025 Agenda Item #4.
Workshop
STAFF MEMO x
Meeting: Workshop - Jun 02 2025
Staff Contact: Jay Hubsch Department: Community Development
Discussion on Tree Rebate Program
In recent years, the Village has attempted to increase the tree canopy through the Adopt a Tree
Program. This has proven to be challenging due to limitations with planting trees in the Village's
rights-of-way. In response to the challenges with the program, Village staff would like the Council to
consider a Tree Rebate Program, where residents and HOA's can get cash rebates for installing
certain trees on their property.
Attached is a report that details staff's proposed Tree Rebate Program.
This document and any attachments may be reproduced upon request in an alternative format by
completing our Accessibility Feedback Form, sending an e-mail to the Village Clerk or calling 561-
768-0443.
BUDGET • •
BUDGET AMOUNT n/a AMOUNT AVAILABLE n/a EXPENDITURE AMOUNT: n/a
FUNDING SOURCES: n/a IS THIS A PIGGYBACK:
❑ Yes ❑ N/A
DID YOU OBTAIN 3 QUOTES?
❑ Yes ❑ N/A
COMMENTS/EXPLANATION ON SELECTIONn/a
Tree Rebate Program-Report
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Agenda Item #4.
Village of Tequesta
345 Tequesta Drive 561-768-0700
Tequesta, FL 33469 www.tequesta.org
Village of Tequesta Urban Tree Canopy
Enhancement Programs
Adopt a Tree Program & Proposed Tree Rebate Program
1. Background: Adopt a Tree Program
In recent years, the Village of Tequesta has made efforts to expand its urban tree canopy through
the Adopt a Tree Program. This initiative provided residents with the opportunity to have a tree
planted in the swale area adjacent to their property. The Village selected Florida-friendly or
native tree species appropriate to the neighborhood, and ensured alignment with "Right Tree,
Right Place"principles. Following installation, homeowners assumed responsibility for watering
and maintaining the trees.
Despite the program's good intentions, participation has remained below expectations. One major
limitation has been the planting location—installing trees in right-of-way areas presents
challenges such as potential disruption to drainage functions of the swales, interference with
underground utilities, and conflicts with sidewalks and driveways. These constraints have
significantly reduced both the number and viability of suitable planting sites. As a result, a
limited number of trees have been planted to date under the program.
2. New Proposal: Tree Rebate Program
To overcome the challenges faced by the Adopt a Tree Program, Village staff proposes the
launch of a Tree Rebate Program. This new program broadens eligibility to both individual
residents and neighborhood homeowner associations (HOAs), aiming to allow a wider range of
residents to participate.
Program Overview
The Tree Rebate Program would provide financial incentives for residents and HOAs to
purchase and plant eligible tree species on private property. Canopy trees must meet the
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Agenda Item #4.
Village's definition for canopy trees and adhere to maintenance requirements outlined in Section
78-399 of the Village Code. Rebates would be offered for two categories of trees:
• Tier 1: Canopy Trees—Large, fast-growing South Florida native species that provide
extensive shade and environmental benefits.
• Tier 2: Medium-Sized Trees— Smaller South Florida native species appropriate for
compact areas or locations near rights-of-way and overhead utilities.
To ensure ecological integrity, only South Florida native trees vetted through the South Florida
Plant Guide will be eligible.
3. Eligible Tree Species
Tier 1 — Canopy Trees (Eligible for up to $300 rebate per tree)
Scientific Name Common Name
Quercus virginiana Live Oak
Bursera simaruba Gumbo Limbo
Taxodium distichum Bald Cypress
Swietenia mahagoni Mahogany
Acer rubrum Florida Red Maple
Pinus elliottii Slash Pine
These species are fast-growing, environmentally beneficial, and contribute significantly to long-
term canopy coverage.
Tier 2 — Medium-Sized Trees (Eligible for up to $200 rebate per tree)
Scientific Name Common Name
Cordia sebestena Geiger Tree
Ardisia escallonioides Marlberry
Lysiloma latisiliquum False Tamarind
Myrica cerifera Wax Myrtle
Myrcianthes fragrans Simpson's Stopper
Conocatpus erectus mr. sericeus Silver Buttonwood
Coccoloba diversifolia Pigeon Plum
These trees are ideal for smaller lots or limited spaces and contribute meaningfully to the urban
landscape, especially in HOA-maintained common areas.
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Agenda Item #4.
4. Program Guidelines
• Application Window: October 1st through March 1st, or until allocated funds are
exhausted.
• Annual Funding Cap: $10,000 in the program's first year.
• Maximum Rebate Per Tree: $300 for Tier 1 and $200 for Tier 2
• Rebate Allocation: First-come, first-served basis.
• Verification: Participants must submit a receipt and allow a post-planting visual
inspection by Village staff.
• Eligibility Limits:
o Single-family homeowners: Rebates available for up to 2 trees.
o HOAs: Rebates available for up to 5 trees, with a minimum of 3 trees visible
from public or internal roadways, unless an exemption is granted.
• Tree Size Standards for Tier I (Canopy Trees):
o Single-family properties: Minimum 14 ft height, 5 ft spread, 3-inch caliper.
o Multi-family properties: Minimum 16 ft height, 6 ft spread, 4-inch caliper.
• Tree Size Standards for Tier 2 (Medium Size):
o All properties: Minimum 10 ft height, 3 ft spread, 2-inch caliper.
• Restrictions:
o Trees required by Village landscape plans or mitigation requirements are not
eligible.
o Trees must be planted within Village limits on property owned by the applicant.
o Trees may not be planted:
■ Within 10 feet of any building foundation or sidewalk,
■ In utility easements or drainage swales,
■ In any location that could obstruct traffic visibility.
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