Does a landowner need....

[2StateTrigger]

a permit from either the State (Colorado specifically) , County, or City in order to cut trees on his own property

OR

can he cut trees (thin or cut a firebreak) at his own discretion?

[Texas Ranger]

not in Texas

[curdog]

Probably depends on the location, luckily not in nc

[clearcut]

It depends on location, sometimes the number of trees to be cut, and often what happens to the cut trees. There are likely state rules, and sometimes county, or city rules.

Check with the state's forest service, county Cooperative Extension service, or a local landowner group to research the laws and regulations in the area that you wish to cut trees.

For example, in California if you commercialize (sell, barter, or otherwise trade) the cut trees, then you need a very expensive Timber Harvest Plan or exemption. There is an exemption for fire breaks around permitted structures. If you cut the trees for your own use, then you may not need either a THP or exemption. In some cities (Sacramento, Oakland, LA) you may need a permit to remove certain trees, even if they are considered dangerous. It's complicated and very confusing.

[whiskers]

Some sub division and HOA have written covenants controlling various vegetation agreed to by homeowners when purchasing the property. Around here a title will state any restrictions or "free of any restrictions" within the sale documents. Grandfathering protects ones property rights to some degree when being annexed by a nearby town. I hurried to set up my circle mill and cut with it on this property to stay ahead of any county ordinance to prohibit having a sawmill. The noise ordinance could still be a problem. Just what we need, more rules created by the do-gooders.     

[Ron Scott]

As stated, best to check with the local, regional, and national governing bodies where the trees are located and the extent of the project.

[2StateTrigger]

I meant to say in Colorado.....I'll edit original question to reflect this...Sorry