In Denver, the tree regulation plays a crucial role in guiding and managing any activities related to trees. This is aimed at guaranteeing the conservation of trees worthy of preservation to promote a healthier environment.

For residents of Denver CO, a tree removal permit is required to remove some types of trees.

This is a summary that will enable you to find out which trees exactly need a permit when you need one, street tree guidelines, and more.

Here! Through the Denver Tree Ordinance guide, you find more information about trees, regulations, and related areas.

Tree removal permit Denver

No. Unless you have a permit from the city/county authority.

In case a street tree falls under the following category will be removed.

  • If it is diseased and there are no treatment options available.
  • If the tree is dead
  • If the tree is blocking or obstructing traffic
  • In case there is a major approved development about to take place
  • When the said tree is posing a danger to either people or other trees
  • When the tree is interfering with the provision of crucial amenities such as gas, power, sewer, water, and more.

Street Approved Trees in Denver

The county of Denver makes sure that all trees planted on the streets meet the required features. As a result, they provide their residents with a list of trees that may be planted on the city trees.

Tree removal permit Denver2

What do I need to apply for a tree removal permit in the county of Denver?

According to Denver County guidelines on trees, in case you have trees that are dying, structurally unsound, or dead, then it is the responsibility of the property owner to make sure that such a danger is mitigated.

In any case that a tree, branch, or plant is causing danger to adjacent property or the public, the owner or involved party will have to cut or remove the said tree. Another case is if the tree is obstructing or blocking traffic or a traffic hazard. Then the owner will have to remove or cut the said tree since it is considered a hazard.

Guidelines on dead and dangerous trees in Denver county

According to Denver County guidelines on trees, in case you have trees that are dying, structurally unsound, or dead, then it is the responsibility of the property owner to make sure that such a danger is mitigated.

In any case that a tree, branch, or plant is causing danger to adjacent property or the public, the owner or involved party will have to cut or remove the said tree. Another case is if the tree is obstructing or blocking traffic or a traffic hazard. Then the owner will have to remove or cut the said tree since it is considered a hazard.

Damaging or removal of trees on public land in Denver

It is illegal to damage or remove any trees growing on public land in the city of Denver. However, there are cases where such trees may be removed.

The city forester has the mandate to determine whether such trees may be removed.

Denver Illegal Tree Removal Penalties

There are heavy penalties for anyone found guilty of removing protected trees without getting a permit.

If you go ahead to remove trees after a permit has been denied, then you will have to pay a fine that is equal to the value of the trees you have removed.

Appealing a decision on tree removal permit

In some cases, your application for a permit may be rejected or the permit denied, as a result, you have a chance to appeal the decision.

Make sure that you appeal the decision within the provided period. Also, provide a report from an independent arborist to support your appeal.

Ben McInerney
Author: Ben McInerney - Ben is a qualified arborist with 15 plus years of industry experience in Arboriculture. He ran a successful tree service before turning to writing and publishing. Ben is dedicated to providing users with the most accurate up-to-date information on everything trees.