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Home Tree Removals Tree Removal Laws & Permits by State Tree Removal Laws & Permits Boulder CO

Tree Removal Laws & Permits Boulder CO

Last updated: 27 March 2024

The Boulder tree regulation exists to guarantee ongoing preservation of trees in the city.

You will need a permit to remove certain trees in the city of Boulder.

It is essential to understand the various tree removal requirements and responsibilities for tree removal activities.

What we cover

Do I need a permit to remove trees on private property in Arvada city?

No. Permits are necessary for trees on city land. As long as they are not heritage trees or significant trees, you do not require a license to remove them. If the tree is of importance to the public in any way, consult with the city manager to determine the way forward.

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If you are still unsure, it might be best to speak to local tree services. They are all up to date on local laws and would be happy to give you free advice about the removal of your tree.

It’s worth noting that tree services are unable to remove trees illegally as they would face heavy fines, so giving you correct information is in their best interests also.

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Go Tree Quotes is a FREE service that matches you with the 3 top-voted local tree services. Based on hundreds of votes by previous customers, we rank local services ensuring you get great service at low prices.

Step 1: Scroll to the top of the page and enter your zip code.

Step 2: Hit the orange button and proceed to answer a few quick questions about your tree job.

Step 3: Top-voted local tree services get in touch with some great advice and priced estimates.

There is no obligation to hire any of the tree services that we match you with.

Can I remove any public tree in the city of Boulder?

Yes. The rule states that no person shall remove or destroy any tree in the public space without having a written permit from the city manager. The city manager is the one to authorize tree removal by qualified personnel.

After getting the permit and removing the tree, you are to replace the tree in one of the following ways:

Plant or transplant an approved tree of the same species and same size.
Plant one or more trees that equal the value of the one removed.
Refund the city by paying an amount equivalent to the value of the tree removed.

Can I remove any public tree in the city of Boulder?

After getting the permit and removing the tree, you are to replace the tree in one of the following ways:

Plant or transplant an approved tree of the same species and same size.
Plant one or more trees that equal the value of the one removed.
Refund the city by paying an amount equivalent to the value of the tree removed.

What are heritage trees?

Heritage trees are trees that carry historical meaning to the community. The community identifies these trees with significant historical events.

What are the significant trees?

Significant trees are trees that impact the climate of the city. Some trees might be growing on private property but significantly affect the appearance of the area. Such trees and others that attract rainfall act as windbreakers and require a permit to remove them.

Can the city manager remove my tree without a warrant in the city of Arvada?

Yes. The city manager has the power to enter your property and inspect all trees in the city without a warrant. However, this should happen at a reasonable time.

If there are any dead trees or overhanging boughs that pose a threat to the people or property, the owner is notified and has 15 days from the date of notice to remove the trees.

Suppose any tree growing on private property is infected with a disease or infested by pests. In that case, it is the owner’s responsibility to treat it to prevent spreading to other uninfected trees. The work is done under the supervision of a certified arborist.

The city manager may prune, spray, and remove trees on private property upon request by the owner, who agrees in writing to pay for the service.

Non-compliance to the notice given by the city manager in Arvada city

The city manager has the power to access the private property and correct the condition at the expense of the owner. Action is taken against the tree owner. The city files a complaint against the owner that leads to a fine or jail term.

What are the costs in case of non-compliance with the notice from the city manager?

It is the owner’s duty to pay tree removal or treatment expenses failure to which the tree owner caters to the following costs.

Tree treatment or removal cost.
An additional amount of $25 as an administrative cost.

If the property owner fails or refuses to pay any charges, the city manager may request the Boulder County Treasurer for collection.

Who is responsible for the planting of public trees in the city of Boulder?

Anyone can plant trees in Boulder provided that he or she has a written permit from the city manager. Before planting, he or she should also comply with the city of Boulder’s Design and Construction standards.

Can I spray and prune public trees in the city of Boulder?

Yes. Anyone can prune, spray, and trim city trees, but only if they have a permit from the city manager. It is the responsibility of the city manager to oversee these activities. The manager also describes the manner in which the spraying and pruning are to be done.

Author: Ben McInerney - Ben is a qualified arborist with 15 plus years of industry experience in Arboriculture. He ran a successful tree service before turning to writing and publishing. Ben is dedicated to providing users with the most accurate up-to-date information on everything trees.

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