Denver, CO Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)
Key Facts
- Trigger size
- 6-inch trunk diameter or larger
- Where it applies
- Front and side street setbacks
- Permit issued by
- Denver city forester
- Applies during
- Residential demolition or construction
- Violation remedy
- Full appraised-value mitigation, possible stop-work
Summary
Denver requires a city forester permit before removing established trees (6-inch-plus trunk diameter) in required setbacks during residential demolition or construction, and mandates fencing and root-zone protection throughout the project.
As provided in section 57-20(c), certain established trees shall not be removed during the course of residential demolition or construction unless the responsible party obtains a permit for removal of the tree from the city forester.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 147 Update 3).
Full Breakdown
Denver Revised Municipal Code § 57-25 requires a city forester permit before an established tree, a live tree with a trunk 6 inches or more in diameter measured 4.5 feet above grade, is removed during residential demolition or construction in a required front, primary-street, or side-street setback. The forester issues removal permits only for irreparably damaged, diseased, dying, hazardous, or nuisance-species trees, or when preservation would block all reasonable building access. Owners must fence off the tree's canopy, keep equipment and materials off the root zone, avoid excavation beneath the canopy, and keep the tree watered throughout construction.
Violations & Fines
Removing an established tree without a permit, or violating the fencing and root-protection requirements, triggers a stop-work order, mandatory replacement, and mitigation for the tree's full appraised value under §§ 57-25(b) and 57-27.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove a large tree before renovating my Denver home?
What counts as an 'established tree' under Denver's code?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Denver
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