Littleton's Landscaping Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles landscaping rules a little differently. In Littleton, 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.

Weed Ordinances

Littleton prohibits noxious weeds and defines weeds as unacceptable landscaping under the ULUC and Landscape Design Criteria Manual. Colorado's Noxious Weed Act (CRS Section 35-5.5-101) requires control of designated weed species. The city enforces through code compliance.

Key details: Noxious Weeds: Must be controlled. State Law: CRS 35-5.5-101. Enforcement: Courtesy notice first. Weeds: Not acceptable landscaping.

Noxious weed infestation: courtesy notice, then citation. State noxious weed violations: county weed district enforcement. Failure to abate: city abatement billed to owner.

Water Restrictions

Littleton residents follow water restrictions from their water provider, primarily Denver Water. Summer watering is typically limited to 2-3 assigned days per week with no watering between 10 AM and 6 PM. Colorado CRS Section 37-60-126 protects homeowners' rights to xeriscape.

Key details: Summer Watering: 2–3 days/week. No Watering: 10 AM–6 PM. Provider: Denver Water (varies). Xeriscape: HOA cannot prohibit (CRS 37-60-126).

Water restriction violations: fines from the water provider, escalating with repeat offenses. Wasting water: additional penalties during drought conditions.

Grass Height Limits

Littleton's code compliance enforces property maintenance standards including grass and weed height limits. The city's Landscape Design Criteria Manual (authorized by ULUC) sets maintenance standards. Overgrown weeds and grass constitute a nuisance violation subject to abatement.

Key details: Enforcement: Complaint-driven. Notice: Courtesy notice first. Abatement: City may bill owner. Code: ULUC + Landscape Manual.

Overgrown weeds/grass: courtesy notice, then citation. Failure to abate: city performs work and bills property owner. Repeat offenders face escalating fines.

Tree Trimming

Littleton's ULUC and public works code regulate tree maintenance on both private and public property. Property owners are responsible for trimming trees that overhang public sidewalks and streets. The city manages public right-of-way trees. Historic Downtown tree canopy is particularly valued.

Key details: Sidewalk Clearance: 8 feet minimum. Street Clearance: 14 feet minimum. Removal Permit: May be required. Neighbor's Tree: Trim at property line.

Failure to maintain sidewalk clearance: notice and required trimming. Unauthorized removal of protected trees: fine and replacement requirement.

The Bottom Line

Littleton'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 Littleton is broadly strict or permissive.

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