Landscaping Rules in Centennial, CO: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Centennial or are thinking about moving there, landscaping rules are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Centennial has 4 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of landscaping rules, and some of them might surprise you.

Grass Height Limits

Centennial enforces property maintenance standards through Code Compliance. Grass, weeds, and vegetation must be maintained at reasonable heights. Overgrown properties may receive violation notices with compliance deadlines.

Key details: Enforcement: Code Compliance. Approach: Complaint-driven. Abatement: City may mow and bill. HOA Rules: Often more restrictive.

Overgrown vegetation: code violation with compliance deadline. City may abate and bill owner for costs.

Water Restrictions

Centennial residents served by Denver Water face strict drought restrictions. As of 2026, Stage 1 drought restricts outdoor watering to two days per week: even-numbered addresses on Sunday/Thursday, odd on Wednesday/Saturday. Colorado SB24-005 prohibits nonfunctional turf on commercial and common interest community property.

Key details: Watering Days: 2 days/week (Denver Water). Reduction Target: 20% total water use. HOA Protection: CRS §37-60-126 protects xeriscape. New Turf Ban: SB24-005 for commercial/HOA.

Watering outside designated days: surcharges and fines from water utility. Non-compliant commercial landscaping: SB24-005 violations.

This is one of the stricter rules in Centennial's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Tree Trimming

Centennial requires property owners to maintain trees and vegetation that do not obstruct sidewalks, streets, or sightlines. Trees overhanging public right-of-way must be trimmed to appropriate heights. The city coordinates with Arapahoe County on tree-related development standards.

Key details: Owner Duty: Maintain trees on property. Sidewalk Clear: 7-8 ft clearance typical. Sightlines: Must not obstruct. Enforcement: Code Compliance.

Trees obstructing public right-of-way: Code Compliance may require trimming. Hazardous trees: potential liability.

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Centennial does not have a citywide tree removal ordinance for private property. Property owners may generally remove trees on their own land. Development projects must comply with landscaping standards in the Land Development Code. HOA covenants may restrict tree removal.

Key details: Private Trees: No citywide permit needed. City Trees: Authorization required. Development: LDC landscaping standards apply. HOA Rules: May restrict removal.

Removing city trees without authorization: liability for replacement. Non-compliance with development landscaping: building code violation.

The Bottom Line

Centennial's landscaping rules rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Centennial is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Centennial can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.