Tree removal permit rules in Aurora, CO — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Removal of trees in the public right-of-way requires a permit from the Aurora City Forester. Private yard trees generally do not require a permit unless part of a landscape plan or EAB quarantine.
Under Aurora City Code Chapter 130, any tree located in the public right-of-way (tree lawn between sidewalk and curb) or on city property may only be removed after obtaining a tree removal permit from the City Forester. Permits are typically issued when a tree is dead, diseased, hazardous, or in conflict with infrastructure. Replacement is often required. Trees on private residential property may generally be removed without a permit, but trees counted toward landscape requirements in a site plan, HOA rules, or commercial landscape plan may not be removed without replacement. Aurora is within the Emerald Ash Borer quarantine area, so ash wood disposal must follow Colorado Department of Agriculture rules, with chipping to under 1 inch or disposal at approved facilities. Removal of protected cottonwoods or heritage trees may also be restricted by site plan covenants.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Aurora code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Arapahoe County.
See how other cities in Arapahoe County handle tree removal & heritage trees.
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