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Tree Protection in Boulder, CO (2026)

4 verified tree protection rules for Boulder, Colorado, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

Tree Removal Permits

Boulder requires permits to remove trees above a certain size on private property. Protected species and street trees have additional restrictions.

Boulder Tree Removal Permit Rules

Some Restrictions

Heritage & Protected Trees

Boulder designates heritage or landmark trees based on size, age, or species. Removal or damage to heritage trees carries significant penalties.

Boulder Heritage & Protected Tree Rules

Heavy Restrictions

Tree Replacement Requirements

Boulder requires replacement planting when permitted trees are removed. Replacement ratios and species specifications ensure canopy preservation.

Boulder Tree Replacement Requirements

Some Restrictions

Urban Forest Equity

Boulder's Urban Forest Strategic Plan guides equitable tree-canopy expansion, prioritizing under-canopied neighborhoods for new plantings, emerald ash borer response, and climate-resilient species selection on public rights-of-way and open space.

Boulder Urban Forest Strategic Plan

Few Restrictions

Looking for Boulder County county-wide rules?

County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Boulder city rules.

Tree Protection in Boulder County