Plant a boulevard garden

Keep infrastructure accessible:

• gas, hydro, water, phone and internet
• street lights, hydrants, bus stops and signage
• transformer boxes and hydro poles

City or utility crews may need access at any time. If work damages your garden, the area will be restored to soil and grass seed or sod.

Keep public spaces open:

• leave 76 cm (2.5 feet) between plants and any sidewalks, driveways, roads or infrastructure
• keep plants under 76 cm tall (2.5 feet)
• prevent plants or materials from spreading outside the garden
• leave space for garbage, recycling and leaf collection
• keep storm drains and green flushing outlets clear

Make sure plants don't block the view:

• do not install borders, fencing or barriers
• keep driveway and street sightlines open
• trim or remove plants that block views

All boulevard gardens must maintain daylight and driveway visibility triangles.

Soil in these areas can be harsh from salt, snow and pollution. Choose hardy, low-growing plants.

Plants:

• choose native plants that need less water — check the Grow Me Instead Guide (PDF)
• don't plant noxious weeds or invasive species
• do not plant fruits or vegetables
• do not block drainage or redirect stormwater
• wildcraft or unplanned “naturalized” gardens are not allowed

Trees:

• only the city can plant trees
• if there is a street tree in your boulevard, follow our caring for city tree guidelines

Decorations and extras:

• no astroturf, large rocks or armour stone
• no irrigation systems
• no permanent or semi-permanent items like poles, benches, tables or BBQs
• nothing can extend over sidewalks, driveways or roads (for example, hoses or string lights)