Denver, CO Tree Ordinance: Guidelines to Follow

From 2001 to 2020, Denver lost one full hectare of tree coverage. By planting trees in your neighborhood, you can help recover these lost plants. To do so, however, you’ll need to follow some strict guidelines.

We’ve compiled this guide to help navigate the tree ordinance in Denver, CO. Let’s dive in and look at the essential steps you need to take. 

Choose Plants Legal Under the Tree Ordinance in Denver

Before you plant a seed, make sure that your tree is currently legal within Denver city guidelines. Denver provides an extensive list of trees legal and illegal to put in public rights-of-way. Some trees to avoid include:

• Any of the poplar (Populus) species including cottonwoods and aspens

• Any of the willow (Salix) species

• Boxelder (Acer negundo)

• Siberian elm (Ulmus pumila)

• Weeping and pendulous trees

• Multi-stemmed trees

For a more detailed list of trees to avoid, check out Denver's complete guide.

Place Trees Per Guidelines

Just as there are specific trees you can and can’t plant, there are requirements to where and how far apart you space your trees. Minimum spacing requirements vary by tree location and type. Regulations mandate:

•  35’ between shade trees

•  25’ between ornamental trees

•  30’ from the curb at intersections

•  20’ from street lights

•  10’ from alleys, driveways & fire hydrants

•  7’ from attached sidewalks 

•  5’ from water meters

Spacing should also be considered for future tree trimming and pruning. Eventually, you’ll have to pair down your trees to keep them properly spaced. For that, you’ll need a permit.

Have Permits in Order

Denver requires permits for pretty much every tree job you can imagine. That includes planting, pruning, and removing trees. With firewood season rapidly approaching, you’ll want a permit sooner rather than later.

To receive a tree removal permit in Denver, CO, you’ll have to jump through a few hoops. While these permits are free to the public, they require an application approved by a representative of the City Forester. Most people instead opt to use a tree service company.

Hire a Tree Service Company Registered in Denver

Avoid the hassle of permit application with a tree service company registered in Denver. All tree service companies in Denver need a license from the city, so make sure to check before you hire. If they’re legitimate, they’ll handle your tree needs and apply for all applicable permits.

Arbor Pro Tree Experts offers both tree removal in Lakewood, Colorado, and Arborist consulting in Lakewood, CO. Our pro team will help with all your tree needs. Plus, tree experts can detect any tree diseases affecting your trees. 

Get Expert Care for Your Trees Today

Next time you need to plant or remove trees, follow the appropriate guidelines within the tree ordinance in Denver, CO. Poor spacing, illegal tree choice, or lack of a permit can all cause massive legal headaches down the line.

As experts in all these laws, let us handle your tree needs. Contact us today, or book a free quote online.