Most restrictions governing private or public landscaping vary greatly
from area to area. Anyone who plants or maintains a landscape should check
governing or controlling agencies for guidelines.
Restrictions are governmental or private. Governmental restrictions
may be laws, codes or requirements. Private restrictions are usually mandated
by homeowner associations or land-use requirements as a part of an ownership
deed. Landscapes in new developments are often controlled by ordinance.
There are several requirements in Colorado that are common throughout
the state. In some areas, any overhanging branches or roots from trees
or shrubs can be trimmed at the property line as long as the trimming does
not adversely impact the plant. Joint property line trees require approval
by both owners before maintenance.
Public right-of-way landscapes may be the responsibility of the adjoining
private land owner. Berm and landscape planting is usually required to
screen parking lots and storage areas.
Some plants, such as Siberian elm, Russian olive, thistle and seeding
cottonwoods, are prohibited by ordinance because of their undesirability.
The amount of lawn may be limited and the type of grass may be designated.
The mowing height of grass and the use of chemicals also could be controlled.
Sometimes, the amount of irrigated area will be controlled, and specific
soil preparation may be required.
Trees below power lines or plants and structures in utility easements
may be prohibited. Planting in view corridors may be restricted. An official
concept of development, such as trees along streets and lawn between the
curb and the sidewalk, may be required.
