Tree Protection in Denver, CO (2026)
3 verified tree protection rules for Denver, Colorado, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Heritage & Protected Trees
Denver requires a city forester permit before removing established trees (6-inch-plus trunk diameter) in required setbacks during residential demolition or construction, and mandates fencing and root-zone protection throughout the project.
Denver Protects Established Trees In Construction
Some RestrictionsDenver Revised Municipal Code § 57-25
As provided in section 57-20(c), certain established trees shall not be removed during the course of residential demolition or construction unless the responsible party obtains a permit for removal of the tree from the city forester.
Protected Tree Species
Before residential demolition or construction, Denver requires a city forester permit to remove any 'established tree', six inches or wider in trunk diameter, standing in a required setback area.
Denver Requires Permit to Remove Established Trees
Some RestrictionsDenver Revised Municipal Code § 57-25
As provided in section 57-20(c), certain established trees shall not be removed during the course of residential demolition or construction unless the responsible party obtains a permit for removal of the tree from the city forester. The city forester shall issue such a permit only upon a finding that: (1) The tree is irreparably damaged, diseased, dying or dead; (2) The tree poses a threat to ...
Parkway Planting
Denver requires a permit from the city forester before anyone plants a tree in the public right-of-way, with planting, spacing, and species rules set by regulation.
Denver Street Tree Planting Permit Rules
Some RestrictionsDenver Revised Municipal Code § 57-19
Through the development and permitting process, the city forester may require the planting of trees on the public right-of-way or other public places in the city. The city forester shall establish rules and regulations for the planting, replacing, and maintaining of trees on any public right-of-way or other public place in the city and it shall be unlawful for any person to plant trees upon any...