Fort Collins Tree Permits & Planting Rules

Land Use and Zoning Colorado 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 20, 2026 Flag of Colorado

Fort Collins, Colorado requires permits and follows municipal rules for removing, pruning and planting trees in public rights-of-way and certain protected areas. This guide summarizes who enforces tree rules, when a permit is needed, how to apply, common violations, and appeal routes for residents and contractors.

Overview

The City manages trees through its Urban Forestry program and local code provisions that protect street trees, trees in public parks, and designated trees in development areas. Private-property planting and protected tree removal may also trigger review under city code or development permits. For official permit guidance and program pages see the city Urban Forestry resources [1] and the municipal code referenced below [2].

Always check the Urban Forestry page before pruning street trees.

Permits and When They Are Required

  • Permit to remove or prune trees in the public right-of-way or on park property - consult the Urban Forestry permit page[1].
  • Development-related tree disturbance or removal during construction - reviewed under city planning and the municipal code[2].
  • Planting standards for street trees and approved species lists are available from the Urban Forestry program or planting guides[1].
Permits are typically required for any work affecting trees in the right-of-way.

Planting Standards and Best Practices

Planting within the boulevard or near sidewalks often requires adherence to species, spacing and soil volumes set by city standards. Use approved species lists to avoid conflicts with utilities and to meet longevity goals. For official planting specifications and approved lists, consult the Urban Forestry planting resources[1].

Penalties & Enforcement

The City enforces tree protections through Urban Forestry, Code Compliance, and Planning staff; enforcement can include civil penalties, stop-work orders, restoration or replacement requirements, and referral to municipal court.

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited municipal code page; see the municipal code for exact fines and schedules[2].
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offences and any increased penalties are not specified on the cited page[2].
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to replant or replace trees, injunctive orders, stop-work orders, and referral to court are used by enforcement authorities as described on city pages[1].
  • Enforcer and complaint pathway: Urban Forestry and Code Compliance accept reports and handle inspections; contact details and complaint submission are on the city Urban Forestry or code compliance pages[1].
  • Appeals and review: specific time limits and appeal procedures are not specified on the cited municipal code page; consult the municipal code or contact the department for exact deadlines[2].
  • Defences and discretion: permits, variances, emergency removals, and documented safety reasons may be accepted; review and discretion details are available via Urban Forestry and code pages[1].
If a tree poses an immediate hazard, contact the city emergency number before applying for retrospective permits.

Applications & Forms

The City publishes tree permit applications and planting guides; the specific form names and fees are available on the Urban Forestry permit and forms pages. If a particular form or fee is not listed on the cited page, it is not specified on the cited page[3].

How-To

  1. Identify whether the tree is on private property, in the right-of-way, or on park land and check the Urban Forestry guidance[1].
  2. Download and complete the applicable tree permit application from the city forms page[3].
  3. Submit the application and required plans/photos to the Urban Forestry or Planning email or portal as instructed on the permit page[1].
  4. Schedule or allow an inspection; comply with any mitigation or replacement orders and pay assessed fees if required.
Keep photos and a tree diary to support permit or appeal submissions.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to prune a tree in my front boulevard?
No work on boulevard or street trees should be done without checking with Urban Forestry; permits or permission are typically required[1].
Who do I contact to report an illegally removed tree?
Contact Urban Forestry or Code Compliance using the city contact pages; follow the complaint submission guidance on the Urban Forestry page[1].
Are there replacement requirements if a protected tree is removed?
Yes, replacement or mitigation is commonly required; exact replacement ratios and methods are detailed in city code or permit conditions and should be confirmed with staff[2].

Key Takeaways

  • Check Urban Forestry before pruning or removing trees.
  • Permits and inspections may be required for right-of-way and protected trees.
  • Enforcement can include orders to replace trees and civil penalties; review municipal code for details.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Fort Collins Urban Forestry - tree permits and resources
  2. [2] Fort Collins Municipal Code - code of ordinances
  3. [3] City of Fort Collins Parks - forms and permit applications

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