Colorado Springs, CO Tree Protection: Parkway Planting (2026)

Under the Urban Forest Code enacted by Ordinance 26-30 (effective August 10, 2026), Section 3.9.104(A)(1) requires anyone planting a tree on a right-of-way to first obtain a City Forester's permit. Section 3.9.104(B) sets the process: an applicant submits the City Forester's forms, and the Forester must grant or deny the application within five business days based on three criteria under 3.9.104(B)(2), whether the activity complies with the Code and any rules the Forester has promulgated; whether the tree species is on the approved street tree list, compatible with the planting site, and compatible with the width of the right-of-way; and whether the activity would impede the safe use of the right-of-way, obstruct street signs or traffic signals, or interfere with the sight-visibility triangle required at intersections under Section 3.9.202(C).

The 'approved street tree list' itself is promulgated and maintained by the City Forester under Section 3.9.103(C), and Section 3.9.102 defines a 'City tree' to include any tree planted in a right-of-way under a City Forester's permit and added to the City's tree inventory. Property owners carry ongoing duties tied to planting compliance: Section 3.9.201(J) requires a City Forester's permit to plant a tree in the adjacent right-of-way, and 3.9.201(A) separately requires an owner to maintain or remove any woody vegetation planted in the right-of-way after January 1, 2020, without a permit, or that is not on the approved list.

A denied applicant may appeal to the Director of Public Works under Section 3.9.309, who may affirm or modify the City Forester's decision. Planting without the required permit is an unlawful act under Section 3.9.204(A), punishable under the Code's General Penalty, Section 1.1.201, with a fine of up to $2,500.00, up to 189 days in jail, or both.