Greeley's Landscaping Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles landscaping rules a little differently. In Greeley, Colorado, there are 4 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Greeley regulates tree removal in public rights-of-way and during development. Private tree removal generally does not require a city permit for individual trees.

Key details: Private Trees: Generally no permit needed. City Trees: Forestry Division authorization required. Development: Tree preservation plans may be needed. Replacement: Encouraged.

Unauthorized removal of city trees results in fines and required replacement. Development violations may result in stop-work orders.

Water Restrictions

Greeley enforces a year-round odd/even address watering schedule with no watering 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; the Water and Sewer Board declared an adequate water year on April 15, 2026, so no drought stage is in effect for 2026.

Key details: Watering Hours: Not 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.. Even Addresses: Sun, Tue, Thu. Odd Addresses: Mon, Wed, Sat. Season: Apr 15 - Oct 31. 2026 Status: Adequate water year.

Violations are issued by Greeley Water Conservation staff; repeat violations can trigger written notices, escalating fines, and variance program suspension under Greeley's water conservation enforcement protocol.

Grass Height Limits

Greeley enforces grass and weed height limits under property maintenance standards. Grass and weeds may not exceed 10 inches in height on residential properties.

Key details: Maximum Height: 10 inches. Vacant Lots: Also subject to maintenance. City Mowing: Cost billed to owner. Enforcement: Code Enforcement.

First violation results in a notice to comply. Non-compliance leads to city mowing at the owner's expense. Fines may also be imposed.

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

Tree Trimming

Greeley requires property owners to maintain trees on their property. Trees must not obstruct sidewalks, streets, or sight lines. The city maintains trees in the public right-of-way.

Key details: Sidewalk Clearance: 8 feet minimum. Street Clearance: 14 feet minimum. Public Trees: City Forestry Division. Private Trees: Owner responsibility.

Failure to maintain tree clearance may result in code enforcement notices. The city may trim and bill the owner.

The Bottom Line

Greeley'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 Greeley is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Greeley's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.