Private Tree Removal Programs

For this program, the City of Flint will match up to $1,000 dollars to assist with the removal of a private tree that is dangerous/dying or has become a safety concern. To Qualify: 

Property must be zoned residential (i.e. dwelling, single family home). 

Only ONE property per owner is eligible. 

Only ONE tree per property is eligible. 

Residents understand the $1000 per party 50/50 match ($2000 total) may not cover full tree removal (stump, trunk, branches, etc.), however the funding will be used to remove the immediate safety concern of said tree.

Residents CANNOT apply for both the matching fund program and the income eligibility program, they must choose ONLY one program.

For this program, any resident that meets the income criteria as required for the HOPE Program, may apply for this program to request up to $1,000 to assist with the removal of a private tree that is dangerous/dying or has become a safety concern. 

To Qualify:

Property must be zoned residential (i.e., dwelling, single family home). 

Only ONE property per owner is eligible. 

Only ONE tree per property is eligible. 

Submit:

Residents understand the funding towards this project may not allow for full tree removal (stump, trunk, branches, etc.), however the funding will be used to remove the immediate safety concern of said tree. 

Residents CANNOT apply for both the matching fund program and the income eligibility program, they must choose ONLY one program. 

Residents must income eligibility requirements for a hardship exemption (see page 3 of application)

Per City of Flint Resolution, you must attach signed copies of the following for all persons living in the household: 

• 2024 FEDERAL INCOME TAX RETURN (1040) OR
• 2024 W 2’s & 1099’s. OR
• 2024 MICHIGAN INCOME TAX RETURN (MI–1040) OR 
• 2024 SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFIT STATEMENT (SSA-1099)
• 2024 HOMESTEAD PROPERTY TAX CREDIT FORM (MI–1040CR)
• YEAR END STATEMENTS FOR ASSET INFORMATION (See page 3 for additional info)
• IF YOU’RE CLAIMING NO INCOME. YOU MUST SUBMIT A DETAILED & NOTARIZED LETTER EXPLAINING HOW EXPENSES ARE BEING MET.

Is there a funding source to help me pay to have my tree cut down on my private property?

A: Yes! There are two programs that can be applied for.

How do I apply for the Private Tree Removal Program?

A: Find the application packet online at the City of Flint website, City Hall Information Desk, Mays Senior and Community Service Center.

How many trees can I apply to have removed?

A: One (1) tree

Can I apply separately for each tree I would like to cut down?

A: No. One (1) application for one (1) tree will be allowed.

Who makes the decision about whether the tree can be removed or not?

A: You! The property owner will decide what tree they would like to have cut down on their property. There will be forestry professionals available to use as a resource, if needed.

Can I apply for the funding match program, and the income-based program?

A: No. You can only apply for one (1).

Can more than one member in the household apply for the program?

A: No. One (1) application per household will be allowed. If multiple applications are received for one household, the first application received will be accepted. All other applications will be ineligible.

How does the application process work?

A: Applications are available at locations mentioned in answer (2) above. The application window will open at 9:00am on Monday May 5, 2025 and will close on Saturday May 10, 2025 at 2:00pm. All Complete applications will be numbered and entered into a drawing on Monday May 12, 2025 and awardees will be generated at random.  Awardees will be notified by phone and by mail.

When will I receive the money to have the tree removed?

A: The funding used to pay for the removal of the private tree is paid directly to the city vetted and hired tree contractor.

What if I need assistance filling out the application?

A: The City of Flint will have support available to answer questions and to assist in filling out the application. If assistance is needed please contact the dedicated email address: [email protected]

Is the application available online?

A: The application will be made available both electronically and as a hard copy.

Can I be put on a list to ensure my application will be approved?

A: No.

What happens if there isn’t enough money to cover the costs of the tree removal, stump grinding and restoration work?

A: There is a possibility that the cost of full tree removal may be more than what the funding allows. In that instance, the funding will be used to remove the immediate safety concern of said tree. You will be required to sign a waiver on the application to acknowledge and confirm your understanding of the aforementioned. As a reminder this program is about safety for you and your property.

Can I apply to have a tree trimmed or cutback from a neighbor’s tree that is hanging over my property?

A: Yes! Per International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) as a property owner, you have the right to cut back vegetation from a bordering property that leans over your property and may cause damage to your property.

Is there funding available that will pay for a tree to be planted on my private property?

A: The City of Flint does not have a current resource in place to pay for a private tree to be planted, but there are several area agencies that sell plants, shrubs, and trees at a very reasonable price.