City Programs in Hamilton for a Greener, Safer Home

Check out the programs offered by the City of Hamilton that offer ways to help the environment while taking care of your property!

If you're a homeowner in Hamilton, you may be eligible for city-run programs that help you protect your property from flooding, reduce environmental impact, and contribute to a greener city. From grants for flood protection to free tree giveaways, these initiatives are designed to support sustainable living and stormwater management. Here’s a look at some of the key programs available to help you make your home more resilient and eco-friendly.

Photo Credit: https://x.com/cityofhamilton/status/1767959626358689957

Protective Plumbing Program

To mitigate basement flooding due heavy rainfall, Hamilton provides the Protective Plumbing Program. Eligible homeowners can receive a grant of up to $2,000 for the installation of protective plumbing devices, such as backwater valves, sump pumps, and downspout disconnections. This initiative aims to reduce the risk of basement flooding by preventing sewer backups.

Disconnecting your downspout is one of the easiest and in most cases, the first step taken when implementing Low Impact Development features on a property. Minimizing the amount of water that flows off your property and redirecting it into your garden beds lowers the amount of water needed for maintenance and your overall risk of flooding.

To learn more about this program, check out the city’s page: https://www.hamilton.ca/home-neighbourhood/home-property/basement-flooding/protective-plumbing-program#grant-program

Tree Giveaway Program

As part of the City’s efforts to improve air quality, and mitigate Urban Heat Island effect by increasing tree canopy cover, The City of Hamilton annually offers free native trees to residents through the Tree Giveaway Program. These trees are intended for planting on private property, preferably along the side of a house or backyards. Pre-registration is required, and pickup events are held at designated locations within the city.

To learn more about this program check out the city’s page: https://www.hamilton.ca/home-neighbourhood/home-property/trees-gardens/tree-giveaway-program

Street Tree Planting Program

If you are interested in adding a tree to the city owned section of your front lawn or maybe on your boulevard (the patch of grass between the road and sidewalk), there is a program run through the city, the Street Tree Planting Program. You can register online to have a Forestry Investigator come out and evaluate the proposed area along and provide a tree selection.

To learn more about this program, check out the city’s page: https://www.hamilton.ca/home-neighbourhood/home-property/trees-gardens/street-tree-planting-program