Mayor Greg Nickels wants to implement changes that are aimed to make gardening in planting strips easier for Seattle’s residents, according to his office.

The new planting strip policy, issued by the Seattle Department of Transportation, eliminates any permit requirements for gardens and ends fees previously required for hardscape improvements, such as planter boxes or pavers.

“This change makes it easier to plant flowers and vegetables in the strip between the sidewalk and the street," said Nickels in a statement. "For many gardeners, that’s prime space. It’s one of the things that makes Seattle special, and, with planting season upon us, it’s time to get those green thumbs going.”

Under the new rules announced May 11, residents no longer need to obtain a $225 permit for hardscape improvements, such as raised gardens or stepping stones. Instead, they can obtain a free online permit for these improvements and to plant a tree here.

The department of transportation has updated its Web site with information explaining the rules here.