Thinking about removing or trimming trees on your East Aspen property? One wrong cut can turn into fines, delays, or last‑minute repair costs during a sale. You want to protect your views and your home while staying compliant. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly when a permit is required, who to call, how city and county rules differ, and how to plan work around wildfire mitigation, historic review, and timelines. Let’s dive in.
Start here: Do you need a permit?
If your home sits inside Aspen city limits, you likely need a City of Aspen tree permit for many removals based on trunk size and species. The City measures diameter at breast height (DBH) at 4.5 feet above grade. A permit is typically required for:
- Native species at 3 inches DBH or larger
- Conifers at 4 inches DBH or larger
- Other deciduous species at 6 inches DBH or larger
You can review the City’s thresholds, checklist, and application steps on the City’s Tree Removal Permit page. See the City’s tree removal guidance.
City of Aspen process for East Aspen homes
How the permit works
- Create an account and submit a tree removal application in the City’s permit portal.
- Expect a site visit from the City Forester to confirm condition, DBH, and required mitigation.
- Keep your approved permit and any conditions on site during work. Do not start work before approval.
Mitigation and fees
The City assigns mitigation based on tree value. You may be required to replace trees on site, pay cash in lieu to fund City plantings, or do a combination. Download the current checklist and fee details or contact City Forestry to confirm the latest requirements. Review the City’s permit and mitigation info.
Wildfire mitigation removals
If you are reducing fuels near your structure, the City requests a home assessment with the Aspen Fire Protection District first. The City Forester will verify removals under the City’s Wildfire Mitigation Matrix and issue a permit with conditions that balance safety and canopy goals. Learn about Aspen’s wildfire prevention and assessments.
Emergencies and hazardous trees
Both the City and County allow for removal of dead, diseased, or hazardous trees, often with expedited review. You should still document the condition, notify the City, and follow staff guidance so the removal is recorded as an exemption or approved permit. See municipal guidance and enforcement language.
Historic properties
If your home is a designated historic resource or within a historic district, tree removals may require Historic Preservation review in addition to a tree permit. This can add time and may change mitigation outcomes. Check the City’s Historic Preservation page.
Outside city limits: Pitkin County rules
If the property is in unincorporated Pitkin County, county standards apply. Pitkin County requires a development permit for larger tree removals, including:
- Commercial logging operations
- Removing more than 40 trees at 6 inches DBH or larger
- Removing 30% or more of trees at 6 inches DBH or larger on a property
The code also lists exemptions for smaller trees, limited selective removals of dead or diseased trees that threaten safety, and habitat and riparian protections. Review Pitkin County’s Title 8 standards.
For permits, contacts, and the online portal, start with Community Development. Visit Pitkin County Community Development.
Special locations to check in East Aspen
- City open space, parks, and rights‑of‑way: Separate protections apply. Do not remove or disturb vegetation in these areas without specific permission. See City open space regulations.
- Smuggler Superfund area: Certain parts of Aspen have institutional controls for soil disturbance. Tree work that disturbs soil can trigger special steps. Confirm if you are inside the Smuggler Superfund area.
Timelines, costs, and planning
City of Aspen tree permits for straightforward cases can be processed in days to weeks, depending on season and workload. Reviews involving multiple departments or Historic Preservation can take longer. The City publishes general intake messages for permits that can affect timing. See recent City permit intake updates.
For Pitkin County, small removals that do not meet the thresholds can be exempt. If your project triggers a development permit, plan for several weeks to months with possible public notice and conditions. In both jurisdictions, mitigation often includes on‑site replacement trees, revegetation plans, cash in lieu, or bonds for larger county approvals.
Sellers should resolve tree work before listing to avoid disclosure issues from unpermitted removals. Buyers should ask for permit records and mitigation status during due diligence.
Quick checklist for homeowners, sellers, and buyers
- Confirm jurisdiction first: City of Aspen or Pitkin County.
- Call before you cut: City Forestry 970-920-5120 or Pitkin County Community Development 970-920-5526.
- Flag special contexts early: near structures, historic sites, riparian areas, open space, or possible Superfund boundaries.
- Hire a certified arborist for DBH measurements, condition assessments, and letters for hazardous trees.
- Get written approvals before work and keep all permits and photos on file for future disclosures.
If you are planning a sale or purchase in East Aspen, the right timing on permits, mitigation, and vendor scheduling can save you money and stress. For introductions to trusted arborists, landscape teams, and a transaction plan that aligns with your goals, connect with Tara Cathcart & Susan Lodge.
FAQs
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in East Aspen?
- If you are inside Aspen city limits, a permit is typically required based on size and species. In unincorporated areas, Pitkin County permits are required for larger removals above code thresholds. When in doubt, confirm jurisdiction and call before you cut.
How long does a City of Aspen tree permit take?
- Simple permits can take days to weeks, while complex or historic reviews can take longer. Check the City’s current intake updates and plan ahead during peak seasons.
How is wildfire mitigation tree work approved in Aspen?
- Get a home assessment from Aspen Fire, then apply with City Forestry. The City uses a Wildfire Mitigation Matrix and may require replanting or other conditions.
What happens if I remove a protected tree without approval?
- The City and County can issue fines, require replacement or cash in lieu, and seek recovery of enforcement costs. Keep approvals and staff communications documented.
Who should I contact first about tree work near Aspen city limits?
- Start with City Forestry at 970-920-5120 if you are inside city limits. If you are outside the city boundary, contact Pitkin County Community Development at 970-920-5526.
