Watkins CDP (part), Arapahoe County, Colorado Tree Protection: Tree Removal Permits Rules (2026)

Tree removal rules in Arapahoe County vary significantly by jurisdiction. Aurora City Code §94-350 et seq. establishes the City Forester position and requires permits to remove, prune, or plant in the public right-of-way and on city property. Private property trees in Aurora are less regulated unless specified in a subdivision plat or HOA CC&Rs. Centennial follows similar public tree management through Public Works; private trees are generally unregulated. Cherry Hills Village Municipal Code §18-1 strictly protects mature trees as community character elements; removal of trees over 8 inches DBH may require special approval. Littleton's Tree Board reviews significant tree removals in designated areas. Unincorporated Arapahoe County has minimal tree regulations for private property; the Arapahoe County Open Space division manages trees on public lands. Colorado's emerald ash borer (first confirmed 2013 in Boulder) impacts prompted tree inventory work across the metro. Street trees and trees within the public right-of-way (typically 10 feet behind curb) always require city approval before removal. Unauthorized removal of street or protected trees triggers significant fines and replacement requirements.