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

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

Grass Height Limits

Lakewood requires property owners to maintain grass and weeds at a reasonable height. Vegetation exceeding 12 inches is a code violation.

Key details: Maximum Height: 12 inches. Enforcement: Police Code Enforcement. Vacant Lots: Also subject to maintenance. Remedy: City may mow at owner's expense.

Owners receive notice with deadline. Non-compliance results in city mowing at owner's expense plus administrative fees.

Water Restrictions

Lakewood follows Denver Water guidelines for outdoor watering. Watering restrictions may apply during drought, including day-of-week schedules.

Key details: Provider: Denver Water (primary). Drought Rules: Assigned watering days. Best Hours: Early morning or evening. Conservation: Xeriscape encouraged.

Violations of mandatory water restrictions result in warnings followed by fines.

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Lakewood may require review for significant tree removal in certain planned development areas. Routine removal on residential property is generally allowed.

Key details: Residential: Generally allowed. Planned Developments: May have tree preservation rules. Right-of-Way: City approval required. Replanting: Encouraged.

Unauthorized removal of public trees results in fines and replacement requirements.

Tree Trimming

Lakewood property owners may trim trees on their property. Trees in the public right-of-way are managed by the city. Trimming near power lines requires coordination with Xcel Energy.

Key details: Private Property: Routine trimming allowed. Right-of-Way: City managed. Power Lines: Coordinate with Xcel Energy. Authority: Public Works Department.

Unauthorized work on public trees results in fines and replacement requirements.

The Bottom Line

Lakewood'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 Lakewood is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Lakewood's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.