Private Property Defensible Space Tree Removal
The Genesee Foundation encourages and supports residents removing hazardous fire fuels to create defensible space around their homes. A private property certified defensible space plan requires use of a qualified defensible space professional identified by Jefferson County Planning and Zoning, and a commitment by the property owner to execute, in its entirety, the tree removal outlined in the plan. In some cases, the certified defensible space plan may include removal of trees on Open Space adjacent to the private property lot in which case additional procedures are required (see 4.h.vi).
- Hire a qualified defensible space professional
- At least 2 working days prior to having a qualified defensible space professional on site to prepare the defensible space plan, the Owner must notify the ARC by email to arc@geneseefoundation.org.
- An ARC member will visit the property either before or at the same time as the qualified defensible space professional for the purpose of marking trees which the ARC would like to save.
- The qualified defensible space professional must evaluate and mark the trees to be removed on both private property and open space.
The defensible space expert will mark trees to be removed with flagging tape and will create a site plan that includes a graphic/diagram showing property lines for the subject property as well as adjacent lots and open space, the perimeter of the residence on the property, and the location of trees to be kept and removed.
Including justification for tree removal based on Colorado State Forest Service’s 2021 Home Ignition Zone Guide, https://bit.ly/3kgSaSO
- The qualified defensible space professional will take the ARC markings into account, but shall have the right, in consultation with the homeowner, to overrule the ARC for fire safety purposes.
- Submit this plan along with the ARC tree removal form to the Foundation office.
- The Foundation will post your property for a period of five days to allow input from neighbors.
- Assuming these steps have been followed, the ARC will approve the defensible space plan at its next meeting following the 5-day posting period.
- You may begin work as soon as you receive approval from the ARC. Once completed, please fill out and return a Notice of Completion Form.
Please fill out the online form below to get started with your project.
If you would prefer to download these forms and fill them out manually, please see below.