University Park

Saving Neighborhood Trees during Re-Development in UPark

Here is an overview....

In the redevelopment of our neighborhood, some neighbors have been concerned about the trees that have been cut down on lots of scrape-offs and new houses that have been built. If you are concerned about the tree on a particular lot - please call the inspector in the City Forrester's office who is responsible for our neighborhood.
MARY WILHAM 720-913-0661

Here are the zoning laws that apply only to "scrape-offs" and completely new developments (where there was an empty lot.)

1) Any tree in the public right of way cannot be cut down by a private property owner.
2) Any tree which is in the front setback on private property and with a diameter of more than six inches cannot be cut down, unless given approval from the city Forrester's office.
3) Any trees in the back yards of a house may be cut down at the discretion of the homeowner.
4) A permit is necessary to remove, prune or plant in the public right away.


A developer or private homeowner must apply for a permit to cut down a tree in situation (2) listed above. Should the builder/homeowner cut down the tree without permission, that entity would be responsible for the value of the tree. The building entity also has the option to appeal any decision by the City Forrester's Office.

What you can do if you are concerned about a tree in our neighbo

1) Take a picture of the tree as soon as possible. (It is hard for the city to prosecute an offence if there is no record of the tree.)
2) Call Mary Wilham in the City Forrester's office 720-913-0660. She is the Forrester assigned to our neighborhood and can "take action" if needed or give you pertinent information on the tree. Mary can also be reached at mary.wilham@ci.denver.co.us If Mary is unavailable, please contact Mike Swanson 720-913-0649.
3) Stay on it! Pursue any appeal with the City Forrester and the Zoning Department.
4) Contact your neighbors and the University Park Community Council if you need help protesting the loss of a tree.
5) Hold a meeting with the building entity to discuss the possibility of saving the tree and your concerns as neighbors.

Email us
mary.wilham@ci.denver.co.us