811 is the national (and free) call-before-you-dig phone number. Anyone who plans to dig should call 811 or go to their state 811 center’s website before digging to request that the approximate location of buried utilities be marked with paint or flags so that you don’t unintentionally dig into an underground utility line.

811 protects you and your community! Hitting a buried line while digging can disrupt utility service, cost money to repair, or cause serious injury or death.

For this program residents will need to submit utility locates for their entire right-of-way between Feb 5-7th. Program staff will then visit each property and assess the underground utility markings and all other infrastructure to decide which type of tree and how many can be safely planted.

We provide a variety of trees that can meet the diversity of planting sites as well as tolerate the harsh conditions of urban streets. We offer both deciduous and evergreen trees, taking into consideration species that provide color, shade, and noise reduction. We do not guarantee any specific trees. All trees are chosen to comply with right tree, right place standards and will grow to varying heights and widths. If you have a strong preference on tree species and size, we invite you to utilize the Tree Coupon Program or the Pierce Conservation District Urban Tree Sale instead. 

The Green Blocks program is intended to serve community members who face social, financial, or physical barriers to accessing trees. If you do not face these barriers and are eager to support the greening of Hilltop District, we encourage you to volunteer, help to get the word out, and assist in planting trees for your neighbors.

TTF staff will visit each property to assess how many trees appropriately fit within the right-of-way considering underground and above ground utilities as well as sidewalks, powerlines and other infrastructure. Program staff will choose the right tree for the right place using these standard planting guidelines. Your tree offering will factor in these planting site details.

You won’t be able to receive trees within this program but can take advantage of many other tree share programs. Check out our Community Greening PDF to find out which tree programs you qualify for. We also always welcome tree enthusiasts to volunteer with us, become a tree steward or attend our many tree advocacy events!

Our grant funding for Green Blocks: Hilltop allows us to provide tree care resources, watering materials, and support. We will monitor these trees each summer, send watering reminders, and provide once per month watering to trees that need it.

You can share the website with folks or print this flyer for your community spaces like church, school and work! We’ll be canvassing the central neighborhood surrounding MLK (Sheridan to J st) with doorhangers.