Tree Incentive Program (TIP) Information

Mission:  The Tree Incentive Program (or TIP) is an effort to foster support and educate citizens on the concepts of how to “Plant the Right Tree in the Right Place”.

How It Works:  The tree incentive program is designed to offer a monetary incentive for planting a specific tree(s) in a targeted location according to local ordinances and guidelines.

• The City of Colwich will reimburse 50% of the cost of a tree(s) (up to $100 dollars maximum reimbursement) for an approved tree to be planted according to the list of Trees for Colwich or the Sedgwick County Preferred Tree List .  There is a limit of two (2) tree reimbursements per calendar year. 

• There will be a Spring and Fall Tree Incentive Program.  The program dates are as follows:  Spring:  February 15th – May 15th and  Fall:  September 1st – November 30th.  Note:  If the 1st falls on a weekend or holiday then the program will begin on the next business day. 

• The number of applications given out for reimbursement of trees is dependent upon annual budget allocation.  There will be approximately $2,000 allocated for 2007.  These funds will be split up equally for the Spring and Fall time slots.  An original receipt and completed application is required for reimbursement.

• Funds will be awarded to approved applicants on the 1st come 1st serve basis.  After the funds are depleted for a given program, applicants may be placed on a priority listing for the next program date.  Applicants still interested in participating in the next program will be required to respond to a letter of notification.

• Each application is valid for one tree only.  If you wish to be reimbursed for a second tree an additional application must be completed.

• The “Trees for Colwich” pamphlet contains guidelines for planting specifications as well as an approved list of trees that are well suited for this area. These pamphlets are not all-inclusive.  The South Central Preferred Tree Species List, available from the Sedgwick County Extension Office, and the Colwich Public Library is also an approved list of tree selections. 

• The City of Colwich is not responsible for honoring any warranty or loss of a tree associated with the purchase of a tree planted in conjunction with this program.

Qualifications & Reimbursement:

• Residents requesting to participate in the Tree Incentive Program must reside in the City of Colwich city limits.  Proof of residency is required at the time of application.  (i.e. Kansas drivers license or a current water bill). 

• Trees may be planted anywhere on the property in compliance with the spacing guidelines in the Trees for Colwich pamphlet.  Additionally, a qualifying tree must be purchased during the corresponding program time slot of which you are participating in.  (Spring program or Fall program)

• Trees to be planted on more than three (3) acres must be planted within 100 ft of the home/business.

• Only one residence/property address owned by the same person may receive reimbursement for up to two (2) trees per year.  Each residence/property owner may receive a maximum of six (6) trees through the Tree Incentive Program over a five-year (5) period.

• A business/organization requesting to participate in the Tree Incentive Program must be located in the City of Colwich city limits.  A business/organization may only receive up to two (2) trees per year and a maximum of ten (10) trees through the tree incentive program over a five-year (5) period.

• A Tree Incentive Program application must be filled out prior to planting.  Forms will be available at City Hall.  Planting guidelines in the “Trees for Colwich Pamphlet” must be followed.

• A City staff member will perform approval/inspections.

• Inspection/approval will usually be made within 10 working days once the request has been made.  Once a request is approved, a reimbursement check will be mailed at the City’s next accounts payable cycle.

• Tree planting, staking, and soil amendments associated with the purchase of a tree are not eligible expenses for TIP reimbursement.

Questions to Consider (PDF document)

Download TIP application (PDF document)

See the Preferred Tree List for South Central Kansas