Denver Tree Removal Permit & Fees - City Guide

Land Use and Zoning Colorado 3 Minutes Read · published February 07, 2026 Flag of Colorado

In Denver, Colorado, removing a tree on public or private property often requires a city permit and review from Denver Parks & Recreation Urban Forestry. For permit requirements, application steps, and any available fee schedule consult the city permit page linked below.Denver Parks & Recreation tree permits[1]

Overview

City rules differentiate between street trees (in the public right-of-way), trees on public parkland, and trees on private property. Removal of street trees or trees protected by municipal ordinance typically requires prior authorization. Property owners should verify whether a tree is designated as a protected or heritage specimen before removing or pruning.

Always check whether a tree is in the right-of-way before arranging removal.

When a Permit Is Required

  • Removal of street trees or trees on city-owned land.
  • Removal of trees designated as protected, heritage, or subject to a preservation order.
  • Large removals associated with development that affect the tree canopy.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is managed by Denver Parks & Recreation Urban Forestry and by municipal code enforcement officers for violations of city tree regulations. Specific monetary fines and daily penalties are not specified on the cited page; see the official permit page for details and any referenced code sections.[1]

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation for repeat or continuing offences: not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: removal orders, required replacement planting, stop-work orders, and referral to municipal court or administrative hearing (specific remedies not specified on the cited page).
  • Enforcer and complaints: Denver Parks & Recreation Urban Forestry (contact details on the resources list below).
  • Appeal and review routes: appeal procedures and time limits are not specified on the cited page; contact the enforcing department for deadlines and appeal forms.
If a tree is removed without a permit the city may require replacement or remediation.

Applications & Forms

The city publishes permit application procedures and any required forms on its Urban Forestry/tree permits page. Specific form names, numbers, and fees are not specified on the cited page; applicants should follow the instructions on the official permit page to submit an application and pay any fees.[1]

How to Prepare an Application

  • Document the tree location with address and photos.
  • Provide reason for removal and any supporting arborist report if available.
  • Complete the city permit form and submit per the city instructions.
  • Include payment for any application fee as directed.
Engage a licensed arborist for large or contested removals to document safety hazards.

Common Violations

  • Removing a street tree without a permit.
  • Failing to obtain authorization for removal of a protected or heritage tree.
  • Failure to comply with replacement or mitigation orders.

Action Steps

  • Check whether the tree is on public property or designated as protected.
  • Gather photos, site plan, and any arborist reports.
  • Submit the permit application via the Denver Parks & Recreation tree permits page and pay fees as instructed.[1]
  • If denied, request appeal instructions from the enforcing department promptly.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my private property?
It depends on whether the tree is protected by local ordinance or located in the public right-of-way; consult the city permit page for criteria and the application process.[1]
How long does a permit decision take?
Processing times are not specified on the cited page; contact Denver Parks & Recreation Urban Forestry for current timelines.
What happens if I remove a tree without permission?
Enforcement may include fines, replacement orders, and other remedies; exact penalties are not specified on the cited page.

How-To

  1. Confirm whether the tree is on public land or protected.
  2. Collect photos, address, and any arborist evaluation.
  3. Complete and submit the permit application per the city instructions and pay any fees.[1]
  4. Await review and comply with any conditions or mitigation measures if approved.
  5. If the permit is denied or you receive an enforcement notice, follow the department’s appeal instructions immediately.

Key Takeaways

  • Street and protected trees often require permits from Denver Parks & Recreation.
  • Fees and penalties are referenced on the official permit page; specific amounts are not specified on that page.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Denver Parks & Recreation - Tree permits and Urban Forestry

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