Quick answer: To clear a lot for building in Denver, confirm the boundaries, record every tree, check which trees are protected, get City Forester approval for any protected tree you need to remove, fence the trees that stay, request a Colorado 811 utility locate, then clear the brush and trees and deal with the stumps. Grading comes afterward and is a separate job.
Most of the delay on a lot-clearing job comes from the steps before any cutting starts. This checklist puts them in order. For the clearing itself, see land clearing in Denver.
What are the steps, in order?
- Confirm the boundaries. Know where the lot lines and the public right-of-way are before you mark anything.
- Record the trees. Note each tree’s position, size and condition, and mark which you want to keep.
- Check which are protected. Right-of-way trees always are. During demolition or construction, so are established trees in the front and side setbacks. See Denver tree protection rules for construction.
- Get the permits. Show the trees on your plans and apply to the City Forester for any removals. The city requires approval before work starts.
- Fence the trees that stay. Fencing goes up before machines arrive and stays up for the project.
- Request the utility locate. Contact Colorado 811 at least three business days before any digging or stump work.
- Clear brush and trees. Brush and small trees first, then the larger trees, taken down in sections where space is tight.
- Deal with the stumps. Grind them, or have them dug out where foundations will go.
- Remove the debris. Chip the brush and haul the logs.
- Hand over for grading. The excavation contractor takes it from here.
Who does what?
| Task | Who |
|---|---|
| Survey and site plan | Surveyor, architect or builder |
| Tree permits and plan review | Owner or builder, with the Office of the City Forester |
| Utility locate | Colorado 811, requested by whoever is digging |
| Tree and brush removal, stump grinding | Tree service |
| Demolition, grading, excavation | Demolition and excavation contractors |
Should stumps be ground or dug out?
Under lawn and landscaping, grinding is enough. Where a foundation, footing or heavy paving will sit, the stump and main roots should come out completely so that nothing decays underneath. The difference is explained in stump grinding vs. stump removal.
What makes the job go smoothly?
- Mark keep and remove trees with different colored tape, and walk the site with the crew
- Arrange access through the widest route, often the alley
- Tell the neighbors when the work will happen
- Decide in advance whether wood chips stay or go
What will it cost?
It depends mainly on the number and size of trees and on access. Typical figures are in land clearing cost in Denver. If the lot is mostly overgrowth, not trees, you may only need brush removal: see land clearing vs. lot clearing vs. brush removal. Lots overrun with volunteer trees are covered in how to get rid of Siberian elm and tree-of-heaven.
Lot clearing FAQs
How long does it take to clear a lot in Denver?
The clearing itself often takes one to several days, depending on the trees. Allow extra time beforehand for permits and for the three-business-day utility locate.
Do I need a permit to clear a lot in Denver?
Not for most trees on private property. You do need a City Forester permit to remove trees in the right-of-way and, during demolition or construction, established trees in the front and side setbacks.
Does lot clearing include grading?
No. Clearing removes the vegetation and stumps. Grading and excavation are done afterward by an excavation contractor.
