Planters

Planters are decorative containers, of a variety of sizes and shapes, which support small trees and understory plantings. Permanent Planters are only encouraged where in-ground trees or plantings are not feasible.

168th Street, Manhattan
Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn

Description

DOT allows two types of planters in the right-of-way: Temporary and Permanent. DOT manages the purchasing, placement, implementation, and removal of temporary planters. Temporary planters are typically installed as part of Operational Projects as hardening to provide safety for pedestrians and vertical visibility for vehicles. They are generally installed along the double white line while maintaining minimum 4 feet spacing between each planter. All planters require a maintenance partner. Review Container Plantings in the Landscape chapter.
Follow DOT's Permanent Planter Design Guidelines; planters that do not adhere to these guidelines require PDC approval

  • Should be capable of providing suitable soil volume to allow trees to thrive; planters should provide a minimum 54 cubic feet of soil volume and may vary in dimension, with a 3-feet height preferred and a maximum 4-feet height
  • Construct with only one material that is durable and can withstand the elements; a thin wall profile is recommended as it provides more soil volume and is less obtrusive
  • Use waterproof and graffiti resistant surfaces; use a single color and avoid hue, brightness and saturation variations; neutral color palettes only
  • Taper planters above 3 feet in height to a narrower base and avoid tall cylinder shapes that restrict tree growth
  • Provide a lip (~2 inches) on the top of the planter
  • Ensure a reveal on the bottom of the planter
  • Planters should allow for uneven or sloped sidewalks while remaining level
  • Planters must have appropriate drainage
  • Advertising is not permitted on planters; limited sponsorship may be approved

Siting

  • Located only on sidewalks that cannot support standard street trees or in-ground planting; may be located within the furnishing zone or against the building
     
  • Must be a minimum of 18 inches from the curb
  • 8 feet or 50%, whichever is greater, of the sidewalk width must remain clear for 15 feet on either side of the planter
  • Smaller planters that support only understory plantings are sometimes used by DOT to delineate new pedestrian space; these planters are temporary and discouraged for permanent applications

Installation

  • Private applicants, community groups, BIDs, and other organizations may apply for permits from DOT to install planters and will be responsible for maintenance
  • Planters are generally not fixed to the surface and are moveable by forklift or similar equipment

For More Information

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