Residential Shade Tree Program

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Registration for the 2026 Residential Shade Tree Program has been extended through September 21, 2026. All IID residential customers may participate and trees will be awarded through lottery selection.

How the Shade Tree Program Works

IID’s Residential Shade Tree program offers customers the opportunity to receive one shade tree professionally planted at their home by a licensed contractor, at no cost. During registration dates, customers may access a link to complete the form and choose a preferred tree species. Trees will be awarded through random lottery selection.

Registration is open. Sign up for the 2026 Residential Shade Tree Program.

What Customers Can Expect

A program representative will reach out to selected lottery winners within 4 to 6 weeks after the sign-up period closes in order to schedule a time and date to visit their home and establish an ideal planting location. Planting is expected to take place between October and December. When registering, customers will have the option to choose among tree species selected for their durability in the desert environment, planted in an optimal location to maximize energy savings by providing shade to homes. Registering does not guarantee being awarded or receiving the exact tree species selected. Trees are distributed through a random lottery, and both tree quantities and species are limited. After planting, care instructions will be provided to help the tree grow strong and healthy.

Program Impact

Since the program began, IID has distributed thousands of trees to households in the Imperial and Coachella Valleys. The number of trees that have been provided per year are:

2022 - Approximately 500 trees
2023 - Approximately 1,000 trees
2024 - Approximately 1,000 trees
2025 - Approximately 1,300 trees

US Forest Service Logo and Cal Fire Logo

Funding for this year’s project was provided by the USDA Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry Program via the Inflation Reduction Act, as administered by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) Urban and Community Forestry Program.

Trees play a critical role in improving our environment and enhancing the quality of life in our neighborhoods. By planting trees, we help reduce residential energy consumption, provide shade that lowers cooling costs, and improve air quality. Beyond these benefits, trees also beautify our surroundings, and create healthier, more connected communities.

Caring for Your Tree

Proper care is essential to ensure your tree provides lasting benefits. Along with energy savings, a well-cared-for tree can improve air quality, support local wildlife, and boost property values. While your tree may take time to reach its full potential, it will provide long-term advantages that make the initial effort worthwhile.

Program Guidelines

IID customers may participate once every 12 months. The program is limited to one free shade tree per customer home. IID’s Residential Shade Tree Program is one of the many public benefit programs offered by the District for its power customers. More information and updates will be shared on this page as they become available. Please check back regularly for the latest announcements.

For any program questions, please email info@iidshadetrees.com.

Dig Safely

Before beginning any landscaping project, remember to call 8-1-1 at least two working days in advance. This free service will help locate and mark underground utilities, preventing potential damage and ensuring a safe planting experience.

If you notice vegetation growing into IID’s power lines or equipment, please contact our Customer Service Center at 1-800-303-7756.

You may find helpful information here:

https://www.iid.com/power/vegetation-management/call-before-you-dig

https://www.iid.com/power/vegetation-management/planting-trees-and-plants