Landscaping Rules in Fort Collins, CO (2026)
8 verified landscaping rules for Fort Collins, Colorado, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Grass Height Limits
Fort Collins enforces maximum grass and weed height. Overgrown properties subject to code compliance action and city abatement at owner’s expense.
Fort Collins Grass Height Limits
Some RestrictionsTree Trimming
Fort Collins may protect certain tree species. Street trees are city property. Heritage trees may require permits for removal.
Fort Collins Tree Trimming Rules
Some RestrictionsTree Removal & Heritage Trees
Fort Collins regulates tree removal on private property through permits and size thresholds. Street trees are city-managed and cannot be removed by residents.
Fort Collins Tree Removal Regulations
Some RestrictionsWeed Ordinances
Fort Collins enforces weed abatement for fire prevention and neighborhood maintenance. Colorado Noxious Weed Act (CRS §35-5.5-101) applies statewide.
Fort Collins Weed Ordinances
Some RestrictionsWater Restrictions
Fort Collins enforces water conservation under local water provider rules. Watering days designated. CRS §37-60-126 protects xeriscaping from HOA bans.
Fort Collins Water Restrictions & Landscape Watering Rules
Some RestrictionsRainwater Harvesting
Fort Collins rainwater collection is limited by Colorado law. HB 16-1005 allows up to two 55-gallon barrels (110 gallons) per household for outdoor use only.
Fort Collins Rainwater Harvesting Rules
Heavy RestrictionsNative Plants
Fort Collins may encourage or require native and drought-tolerant landscaping. Some areas restrict traditional grass lawns in favor of water-efficient alternatives.
Fort Collins Native Plant & Xeriscape Rules
Few RestrictionsColorado SB 23-178 (2023) — Water-Wise Landscaping in HOA Communities
The act states that an association's guidelines or rules must: Not prohibit the use of nonvegetative turf grass in the backyard of a unit owner's property; Not unreasonably require the use of hardscape on more than 20% of the landscaping area of a unit owner's property; Allow a unit owner an option that consists of at least 80% drought-tolerant plantings; and Not prohibit vegetable gardens in t...
Artificial Turf
Fort Collins generally permits artificial turf installation with some requirements for drainage, appearance, and base preparation.
Fort Collins Artificial Turf Regulations
Few RestrictionsLooking for Larimer County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Fort Collins city rules.
Landscaping Rules in Larimer County →