Tree Power

Participating Nurseries

Why plant trees?
Trees planted around a home can reduce cooling costs by as much as 20%. In addition to saving energy, here are some other benefits trees offer:

• Clean the air
• Reduce noise
• Provide privacy
• Prevent soil erosion
• Beautify the environment

Tree Power Program Qualifying Trees (for both programs):

(Dwarf trees, palms, and citrus trees do not qualify)
* Additional trees may qualify. Please call 951-826-5485 for details.

For complete information on tree species, please visit the Urban Forest Ecosystems Institute and get valuable information on many species of shade trees. Riverside Public Utilities does not guarantee the accuracy of the data and information derived from the UFEI website. This link is provided for informational purposes only.

Program Guidelines

• Program is subject to fund availability and may be cancelled at any time.
• Customers must fulfill all program-specific and general RPU program guidelines to be eligible for incentives.
• The level of incentive is $40 per tree for the purchase of up to five qualifying trees per electric account, per calendar year.
• Rebate will be credited to customer’s electric account.
• Rebate amount cannot exceed the purchase price of the tree.
• Only specific species of trees qualify for this program. Trees are subject to approval by RPU.
• Dwarf trees, palms, and citrus trees do not qualify.
• Qualifying trees must be purchased from a City of Riverside merchant, and planted within 14 days of purchase at customer’s service address.
• Before planting, customer must contact the Underground Service Alert of Southern California or DigAlert at 1-800-227-2600.
• Trees must be planted within 10-35 feet of the foundation on the customer’s own property to achieve maximum energy efficiency without negatively impacting any dwelling, business, underground pipes, utility lines or solar power access.
• Customers cannot plant trees on areas considered City property.
• Planted trees are subject to inspection. Customer must allow RPU access to their property to inspect the tree(s).
• Customer must sign liability agreement and agree to the long-term care of the tree.
• All General Program Guidelines apply.
• Riverside Public Utilities reserves the right to determine eligibility, modify or discontinue this program without prior notice at its discretion. Program is subject to fund availability.

Customer Certification Statement

I certify that I am the owner(s) or tenant(s) of the real property where the trees have been installed, and I have not previously received or applied for other utility financing or incentives for the improvements on this application. I also certify that the foregoing information is true and correct. I agree that any and all trees, which I obtain through the Tree Power Rebate Program are my trees and not the City of Riverside’s trees. I understand that I will care for the trees and be fully liable for any damage to person or property which may be caused by the planting, maintenance, and presence of the trees, or is in any way related to my receipt of the trees under the Tree Power Rebate Program and that Riverside Public Utilities (RPU) will have no liability. I understand and agree that the choice of improvements, the selection of contractors, the purchase of items and acceptance of materials used, the work performed, and the payments thereof are my responsibility. I understand that RPU does not endorse, recommend, or make any representations as to specific brands, products, contractors or dealers, nor does it guarantee material or workmanship. I further agree to indemnify and hold harmless the City of Riverside, its officers, employees, and agents from any damages related to the use or installation of the product(s).

Tree Care Tips

Don’t Forget the Mulch!

Laying 2-4 inches of mulch in a 3-foot circle around the tree helps retain moisture, reducing water needs and protecting your tree. Be sure to keep mulch away from the trunk.

When Watering, Prioritize Your Trees

Remember, trees are an investment. It will take more water, time, and money to replace a mature tree lost to drought than to keep one alive.

• Young Trees:
  • For young trees (0-3 yrs) need 5 gallons of water 2-4 times per week. Create a small watering basin with a dirt dam around the tree to keep the water around the tree’s roots.

• Established Trees:
  • For established trees (3+ yrs), slowly soak the root zone under the canopy until water soaks 12-18 inches below the surface. Do not water close to the trunk. Use a soaker hose, a sprinkler hose attachment on a low setting, or other watering systems.
  • Free Soaker hose with purchase of Hose Irrigation Controller. Soil Moisture Sensor.

When to Water

The easiest way to tell if a tree needs water is to use a long screwdriver and poke the soil. The screwdriver will pass easily into moist soil but will be difficult to push into dry soil. If you can't poke it in at least 6", it's time to water. Also you can add Weather Base Irrigation Controller and Soil Moisture Sensor.

Soak Slowly to Avoid Run-Off

Watering faster than soil can absorb it leads to runoff and waste. Long, slow soaking allows water to go deeper. Place the watering system above the tree if on a slope, so water flows and soaks around the tree (but not close to the trunk). Use a hose timer so you don't leave the hose on. Add the Hose Bib Irrigation Controller and Free soaker hose with proof of purchase.

Limit Pruning and Fertilizer

Avoid pruning or fertilizing trees during dry seasons. Lack of water and too much pruning both stress your trees. Fertilizer encourages leafy growth, but the tree will require more water.

Additional Resources

• How to remove grass for turf replacement
• Find the Perfect Native Plants for Your Garden
• TreePeople.org’s Guide to Alternative Ground Covers
• Gardening Guide for Those Without a Yard - Container Gardening Guide
• Guide to water efficient landscaping