 City Initiatives - Green Spaces & Play Places
Green Spaces
Part of Clearwater's green movement involves maintaining our green spaces. The Urban Forestry division maintains our tree canopy, which works wonders in keeping our beautiful city clean and green.
Trees provide habitat for wildlife. Evergreens provide winter wind protection and act as a privacy screen. Deciduous trees, when planted on the south and west side of a home provide shade and can lower the summer air-conditioning cost by 10 to 15 percent. Street trees provide shade for the roadway pavement, thus reducing the reflected heat, and they improve the curb appeal of neighborhoods. Fruit trees provide spring flowers and autumn harvests. And finally, accent trees provide flowers, color, and a wide variety of shapes that add beauty to the landscape.
 The city asks that as you select a tree for your yard, consider the surroundings. The tree industry uses the phrase, "Right Tree - Right Place." Planning before planting can help ensure that the right tree is planted in the best location. Proper tree selection and placement enhance your property value and prevent costly maintenance trimming and damage to your home. Think of the trees you purchase as a lifetime investment. How well your tree, and investment, grows depends on the type of tree and location you select for planting, the care you provide when the tree is planted, and follow-up care the tree receives after planting.
When healthy, protected trees are removed in Clearwater, the whole community suffers. The first thing we lose is the beauty the tree provides. Other losses include environmental, energy savings, property value, and wildlife habitats. Let's work together to help keep Clearwater "cool"; by planting new trees and protecting existing ones.
Plant and properly maintain trees on your property. You need a permit for all tree removals except for four invasive plant species: Punk (cajeput), Brazilian Peppers, Australian Pines, and Chinese Tallow. Read our brochure to learn more about tree removal, landscaping tips, and recommended trees that thrive in our climate. For a tree removal permit or more information, call (727) 562-4746.
 Play Places
The Parks & Recreation Department provides programs, services, facilities and beautification to benefit the residents and visitors of the City of Clearwater. A wide range of parks, preserves, and trails help enhance the livability and quality of life for all our residents. Visit our facilities search tool online to see all of the recreation facilities that the city has to offer.
The Southwest Florida Water Management District also offers this valuable guide (*8 MB PDF file*), which provides maps and recreation information for various parks, trails, and preserves through the district's area.
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