Commemorative Trees and Bench Program

The Commemorative Tree and Bench program is offered through Parks Operations. The donation of a tree or bench in honour of a person, occasion or organization will enhance our green spaces and the natural environment.

Tree donations include an engraved plaque on a 12-inch square stone to be placed below the tree.
Bench donations include a 2-inch by 6-inch engraved plaque to be mounted on the bench.

Photo Gallery: Commemoration in Parks will appear here on the public site.

Installations are done annually in the spring and the fall, as weather permits. Requests for spring installations/plantings must be received before April 1 and requests for fall installations/plantings by September 1.

Please note the waterfront areas at Fairfield Park and Finkle's Shore are nearing capacity. Limited select locations are available in these and other designated areas - primarily parks, trails and facilities. Contact details can be found on the right hand side.

Apply for a commemorative
tree or bench Commemorative Program
Policy details

Donation fees - Commemorative Bench

The term is for ten years and we will maintain the bench at no cost to the donor during that time.
If the bench is damaged to the extent that it needs replacement, it will be replaced at our expense one time only.
Fee is $2,295 (including taxes).
Includes installation, personalized plaque and installation on bench, ten years maintenance, and an onsite dedication ceremony within 12 months of installation.
The metal benches are installed on a 4-foot by 8-foot concrete pad.
After ten years, the bench will become available for adoption unless the donor has arranged for the renewal of care and maintenance.

Ten year bench renewal

A one-time renewal is available to extend the regular care and maintenance for a further ten years.
Fee is $759 (including taxes).
One-time contract renewal to cover cost of regular care and maintenance for a further ten year period.

Donation fees - Commemorative Tree

Fee is $995 (including taxes).
Includes planting, personalized plaque and installation at tree, ten year maintenance of tree, and an onsite dedication ceremony within 12 months of installation.
Tree species are based on supplier availability and native tree compatibility.
Approved species include sugar maple, blue spruce, magnolia royal star, red oak, crabapple, and serviceberry.

Dedication ceremonies

The fee includes a one time permit to be used within the first year of installation to donors who would like to hold an organized dedication ceremony.
Dedication ceremonies cannot be held on the day of installation.

Which tree?

The varieties offered are based on supplier availability and native tree compatibility to the selected planting location. You may identify your preferred tree species within the application.

Your donation of a tree will add to the beauty of our public spaces while a bench provides a comfortable resting place. Please consider a contribution towards beautification while creating a lasting tribute.