Forestry Mission

Our mission is to maintain a healthy urban forest by providing expert maintenance for the trees found in the right-of-way (ROW) and other trees located throughout in City-owned cemeteries, golf courses, and parks.

The Forestry Division is only responsible for the ROW (Right-of-way) and all City-owned trees. To report a defective tree issue in a ROW use the Report a Tree Concern Form.  The property owner should contact a tree service for hazardous trees on private property. 

Forestry Roles and Responsibilities

The Forestry division is responsible for trees on public property or in the City's right-of-way.  Right-of-way includes the paved portion of a street and a "border area" between the pavement and the adjoining property.  The trees Forestry refers to are located in the "border area", which is also typically occupied with utilities, fire hydrants, street signs, sidewalks, etc.

Street Tree Program

The City of Des Moines offers residents the opportunity to have a tree planted on the space near the street (in the right-of-way) at no charge.  There are a limited number of trees available, so if you would like a street tree planting send us a request.  You will receive a letter notifying you we have received your request.