Grand Junction's New Tree Rules Could Change Your Property

Some Grand Junction residents are concerned about a recent City Council decision to remove preservation requirements for significant trees from the city's development code.

The change came after the city's Housing Affordability Code Task Force argued that rules in the old code create "new development problems" and voiced concerns that those rules could encourage developers to remove trees before seeking permits.

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Grand Junction Just Changed the Rules for Some of Its Biggest Trees

The city council vote could change what happens to a mature tree when a property is developed should the ordinance take effect next month. The 4-3 vote removes the requirement to preserve “significant trees” at least 15 inches in diameter. Under the old rule, developers had to preserve at least 30% of those trees, or replace trees removed for specific circumstances.

This summer, the Grand Junction recorded 26 days at 100 degrees or higher and nearly 50 days with a high of at least 97 degrees. Understandably, residents get nervous over talk of discarding what's left of the tree canopy.

What Changes for Developers and Homeowners?

So, what’s actually changing? Under the new ordinance, developers will no longer have to meet the 30% significant-tree preservation requirement. The city says that doesn’t mean significant trees are suddenly fair game. The change is focused on development rules, not giving homeowners a blanket exemption to remove trees. Other city requirements covering trees and landscaping will remain in place.

When Do Grand Junction's New Tree Rules Take Effect?

Grand Junction Just Changed Its Rules for Big Trees — TSM W Adams

Subdivision rules still require developers to consider mature trees and native vegetation. Subdivision plats must still identify significant natural features, and development limits can be set up to preserve those features. The council changes are now part of Ordinance No. 5340. Read the ordinance here. The document specifically states that it becomes effective on October 5, 2026, so the current significant-tree development requirements remain in effect until then.

LOOK: One of Colorado's Oldest and Most Giant Trees is Near Grand Junction

Sitting right next to the Colorado River in Palisade is one of the oldest and largest Fremont Cottonwood trees in the state of Colorado. This special tree was another reason the site was included as part of the Colorado River State Park when it opened in 1994.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

MORE: 10 Facts You May Not Have Known About Colorado’s State Tree

Colorado's Blue Spruce Pine has been our official state tree since March 7th, 1939. Scroll through ten facts you may not have known about this special tree in the photo gallery below.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

UP NEXT: You Told Us These Grand Junction Businesses Have Great Customer Service

When you go out and shop, you want to go to a place that still wants to earn your dollar. In a time when most cashiers won't make eye contact with you, it's nice to know there are still places that know what great customer service is. Scroll on to see which local businesses you told us are the best for great service with a smile.

Gallery Credit: Wes Adams