YardCareDirectory

Colorado Tree Removal Permit Requirements

LOCAL RULES VARY

No statewide requirement. Front Range cities have adopted ordinances; rural areas are unregulated.

Issuing authority: City forestry division
Permit Fee
$25–$75 in regulated cities
Processing Time
5–15 business days
Protected Species
3
City Rules Listed
3
Protected Species in CO
CottonwoodBlue Spruce (state tree)Ponderosa Pine
These species commonly trigger permit requirements or stricter review in Colorado jurisdictions. Check with your specific city — protections vary by municipality.
Common Exemptions
  • +Dead or diseased trees
  • +Trees under 6 inches DBH
  • +Trees posing documented safety hazard

Exemptions still often require documentation. Bring photos, contractor assessments, or an ISA-certified arborist report to support a hazard or disease claim.

Rules by City in Colorado

Denver

Street trees require permits; private property trees over 6 inches DBH require notification if within 10 feet of public right-of-way.

Fee: $30 permit feeDenver has an urban forestry crew that may assist with ROW trees.
Boulder

Significant trees (over 12 inches DBH) require permits. Replacement required at 1:1 or pay into tree fund.

Fee: $50–$150Boulder has an active urban canopy program — expect scrutiny on oaks and large conifers.
Fort Collins

Street trees are city property. Private trees near public land may require notification.

Fee: No fee for most private property removalsEmerald ash borer rules require licensed disposal of ash trees.
Tips for Colorado Homeowners
  1. Ash trees in Colorado require special disposal due to emerald ash borer quarantine regulations.
  2. In mountain communities, wildfire mitigation can exempt you from tree ordinances — check with your local fire department.
  3. Denver's Forestry Division offers free consultations for trees near streets.
HOA Consideration: Many Colorado mountain communities have HOA rules that add another layer of approval for any tree removal.
Find tree services in Colorado that handle permits
Licensed professionals know local rules and will pull permits for you.
Tree Services in Colorado