Denver protects significant trees through the Office of the City Forester under DRMC Chapter 57. While Denver does not have a formal 'heritage tree' registry identical to some cities, the city protects notable, mature, and specimen trees on public property and during development review. Large-diameter trees receive additional scrutiny before removal is approved.
The City Forester evaluates tree removal requests based on species, size, health, and significance. Large-diameter trees (generally over 6 inches DBH) require replacement when removed during development. Denver's urban forest includes notable specimen trees that the City Forester may refuse to permit for removal. Trees on the Denver Landmark-designated properties receive additional protection. The Denver Parks department maintains an inventory of significant public trees. Denver's Tree Preservation ordinance requires developers to protect existing trees during construction using tree protection fencing and root zone preservation.
Removing a protected or significant public tree without City Forester approval violates DRMC Chapter 57. Penalties include fines up to $999 per tree and mandatory replacement at ratios that may exceed 1:1 for significant specimens. Damaging protected trees during construction can result in stop-work orders and replacement costs assessed at full appraised tree value.
Denver, CO
Denver's Zoning Code allows residential lawn ornaments and statuary without permits provided they do not exceed accessory-structure height limits in DZC Arti...
Denver, CO
Denver does not regulate residential inflatable holiday decorations by size or type. Blower-motor noise falls under DRMC 36-6 (Noise) limits, lighted inflata...
Denver, CO
Denver has no ordinance restricting when residents may put up or take down holiday lights. DRMC Chapter 36 (Noise) governs amplified outdoor displays, DZC Ar...
Denver, CO
Built-in outdoor kitchens in Denver require permits from Community Planning and Development whenever the project includes gas piping, electrical, plumbing, o...
Denver, CO
Backyard wood and pellet smokers are allowed at single-family Denver homes but are governed by DRMC Chapter 4 (Air Pollution Control) and Colorado Department...
Denver, CO
Denver Fire Code (DRMC Title 9, adopting IFC 2018 with amendments) Section 308.1.4 prohibits charcoal grills and LP-gas containers over 1 lb on combustible b...
See how Denver's heritage & protected trees rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.