Centennial Tree Removal Permit & Ordinance Guide
Arapahoe County, Colorado
Protected Tree Definition
Significant tree: 6 inches DBH or greater on development sites. Tree preservation required during development review. Ash species subject to EAB management.
Protected Species
Heritage / Landmark Trees
Significant Trees defined under Centennial Land Development Code (Tree Preservation) at 6-inch DBH or greater on development sites trigger Tree Preservation Plan review with retention and mitigation requirements during plat, site plan, and building permit applications — Centennial's enhanced-protection tier in lieu of a separate heritage-tree designation.
Permit Requirements
Tree Preservation Plan required for development applications (plat, site plan, building permit).
Who can apply: Property owner or authorized agent with arborist report
Required Report Sections
Tree inventory with DBH, species, condition, retention plan, mitigation plan
Replacement Requirements
Based on tree size and condition (typically 1:1 to 2:1)
On-site replacement preferred; fee-in-lieu when infeasible.
Fees & Fines
Processing Time
3-6 weeks
Required Certifications
ISA Certified Arborist
Municipal Code
Centennial Land Development Code (Tree Preservation)
View full ordinanceContact
Community Development Department
(303) 754-3308
Nearby Cities in Arapahoe County
Other Colorado cities
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Data last verified: April 2026. This information is provided as a reference. Always verify requirements directly with Centennial before submitting permits or reports.
Ready to apply? How to apply for a permit in Centennial →
See Colorado replacement obligations compared: How Centennial's replacement ratio ranks in Colorado →
See Colorado heritage criteria compared: How Centennial's heritage designation ranks in Colorado →
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