Tree Removal Permits: Colorado Springs vs Manitou Springs
How do tree removal permits rules compare between Colorado Springs, CO and Manitou Springs, CO?
Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs have similar restriction levels.
Colorado Springs, CO
El Paso County
Colorado Springs regulates tree removal primarily on public property and within development projects. Trees in the public right-of-way are managed by the City Forestry Division and cannot be removed without city authorization. For private development projects, the UDC requires tree preservation plans and may require mitigation when significant trees are removed during construction. Private homeowners generally may remove trees on their own property without a permit, but street trees and trees in designated open space areas are protected. The city's urban forest is managed under the Parks and Recreation Department.
View full Colorado Springs rules →Manitou Springs, CO
El Paso County
Colorado Springs requires permits for street tree and right-of-way tree removal under CSCC §4.7.106 — private-property trees generally exempt except Hillside Overlay and Ponderosa Pine Preservation Zones. El Paso County requires WUI tree management permits in designated hazard zones but no general private-property permit.
View full Manitou Springs rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Colorado Springs | Manitou Springs |
|---|---|---|
| Public Trees | City Forestry Division approval required | - |
| Private Trees | Generally no permit for private property | Generally no permit |
| Development | Tree preservation plans required for projects | - |
| Street Trees | Protected — city authorization needed | CS Forestry approval |
| Management | Parks and Recreation — City Forestry Division | - |
| Hillside | - | Permit required |
| Black Forest | - | Tree conservation plan |
| EAB/Dutch Elm | - | Removal may be mandated |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Colorado Springs FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my property in Colorado Springs?
Generally, private homeowners do not need a permit to remove trees on their own property. However, trees in the public right-of-way (street trees) are city property and require authorization from the City Forestry Division.
What about trees during new construction?
Development projects must submit tree preservation plans under the UDC. Significant trees removed during construction may require mitigation through replacement planting or other measures.
Manitou Springs FAQ
Can I cut down a tree in my Colorado Springs backyard?
In most cases yes, without a permit — Colorado Springs does not regulate general private-property tree removal. Exceptions: Hillside Overlay lots, landmark trees, and lots with approved landscape plans. In Black Forest, check the Ponderosa Pine Preservation rules first.
What about the tree in front of my house on the curb strip?
That's a street tree in public right-of-way. You need City Forestry permit (CSCC §4.7.106) and will likely be required to replace it 1:1 or 2:1 with a city-approved species. Fines for unauthorized removal: $500-$5,000.
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