Tree removal permit rules in Denver County, CO — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Street trees in Denver's right-of-way require a City Forester permit to remove. Private trees generally don't require a permit unless under construction. Removing protected trees without a permit incurs fines equal to tree value.
Denver requires permits from the Office of the City Forester before any street tree in the public right-of-way can be removed. Private trees on your own property generally can be removed without a permit unless the property is undergoing construction or demolition, in which case special tree protection requirements apply. It is illegal to damage or remove trees on public land without a permit. Penalties for unauthorized removal of protected street trees equal the assessed value of the tree. The City Forester approves tree removal only if the tree is diseased with no treatment options, structurally hazardous, or interfering with critical utilities.
Fine equal to the value of the removed tree. Administrative citation or criminal charge possible for major violations.
Denver County, CO
Denver DRMC Chapter 36 sets quiet hours 11 PM–7 AM in residential zones. Residential limit is 55 dBA daytime, 50 dBA nighttime. Violations can reach $5,000/day.
Denver County, CO
Denver has no outright ban on leaf blowers but phases in restrictions on gas-powered commercial landscape equipment. DRMC Chapter 36 noise limits apply, and ...
Denver County, CO
Denver requires driveways to meet setback and width standards. Blocking the public sidewalk is prohibited. Curb cuts require a permit from DOTI.
Denver County, CO
Denver limits large commercial vehicle parking on residential streets to 2 hours. A 2023 ordinance expanded restrictions citywide. Trucks used for active wor...
Denver County, CO
Denver requires a zoning permit for fences between 4–6 feet. Over-height (6+ ft) fences require an additional over-height fence permit. Historic properties r...
Denver County, CO
Colorado's Good Neighbor Fence Act (C.R.S. §35-46-112) applies. Denver does not mandate cost-sharing, but neighbors may negotiate. Disputes over boundary fen...
See how Denver County's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
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