Bloomington Launches Tree Assistance Program for Homeowners

New funding initiative helps remove hazardous trees, plant new ones, and grow the city’s tree canopy

Parks and Recreation has launched the Tree Assistance Program (TAP), a new initiative that helps qualifying homeowners remove or prune hazardous trees and plant new ones on private property. The program is designed to improve safety while contributing to Bloomington’s tree canopy, which provides shade, erosion control, wildlife habitat, and climate benefits.

To qualify, applicants must own and live at the property where the work will be performed, and the property must be located within Bloomington city limits. Income eligibility is based on area median income. A single-income household must earn less than $63,000 annually to qualify. A multiple-income household must earn less than $72,300 annually.

Applications, including proof of income, will be accepted through Oct. 1. A review committee of staff from Housing & Neighborhood Development, Planning & Transportation, Economic & Sustainable Development, and Parks and Recreation, along with a representative of the Bloomington Tree Commission, will evaluate and prioritize requests. Parks and Recreation will contract all approved removal, pruning, and planting projects for spring 2026.

The Board of Park Commissioners approved TAP on July 17. Additional details and the application are available at bton.in/TAP or by contacting Urban Forester Haskell Smith at [email protected].