Location & Tree Spotting Policy

Version 2026-06-04

Not legal advice. These policies are written as a community-friendly summary. They are not a substitute for advice from a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction. We are actively improving this language with counsel; bookmark this page and check the version stamp.

The Spotting feature lets community members share locations of public fruit trees, community gardens, and gleaning opportunities. It works ONLY if everyone respects property rules.

What you can spot

Trees and plants on truly public land (parks, public right-of-way, public sidewalk strips)
Community gardens that explicitly invite the public
Your OWN trees or garden — you can invite others
A neighbor's tree IF you have that neighbor's explicit permission to share it

What you may NOT spot

Trees on private property without owner permission
Locations where harvesting would constitute trespassing
Locations where harvesting is restricted by ordinance (some park trees are off-limits)
Anything posted with a deceptive description

Required confirmation

Before posting a spot, you confirm that:

The location is publicly accessible OR you have permission from the property owner.
The fruit or produce is legally available for foraging.
You will not encourage trespassing.

How harvesters should behave

Take only what you need.
Don't damage trees or surrounding plants.
Don't enter fenced areas, climb over walls, or harvest after posted park hours.
Carry ID.
If approached by a property owner, leave politely.

Reporting bad spots

If a spot is on private property without permission, was posted to harass an owner, or is otherwise inaccurate, report it at /reports/new. Admins remove problematic spots quickly.

The Platform is not liable

We do not verify ownership of any spot. The community attests; we listen to reports; we remove. Trespassing or property damage caused by acting on a spot is the responsibility of the person who acted, not the Platform.

Questions or feedback: legal@mygrowcommunity.com