Santa Clara may already have "Tree City U.S.A." status, but residential streets will become even more lovely and shady in the next few years as a result of a tree giveaway program in 2002 in conjunction with the City's Sesquicentennial Celebration.

To commemorate Santa Clara's founding in 1852, the City is giving away 1,852 trees to its residents to plant on their property.

Multi-family dwellings are allowed one tree per unit. If you live in a multi-family dwelling, you must get written permission from the homeowners association to receive a free tree.

• The tree will be delivered to your property; you are in charge of planting it on your property.
• When delivered, the tree will be approximately 4 to 5 feet in height, and will be in a five-gallon container.
• You do not need to be home when the tree is delivered.
• Generally, the tree should be delivered approximately 2 to 4 weeks after a completed registration form is received.
• Registration forms are available at most City Facilities, including City Hall. Call (408) 615-2063 to request a form, or simply click on the registration form link above. Print the form out, complete it (and sign it), and send it to City Hall.
• You have three options to return the form: Fax the form to the Recycling Department at (408) 244-8071; mail the form to Street Department at City Hall, 1500 Warburton Ave., Santa Clara, CA 95050; or hand-deliver the form to the Street Department at City Hall located at 1500 Warburton Avenue.
• For any other questions or concerns, please call (408) 615-2063.
  Funding for the program comes from the Electric Department's Public Benefits fund and was approved by the City Council. The Street Department will coordinate the purchase and delivery of the trees. More information can be obtained by calling Street Department at 615-2063.