Woodpeckers are classified as migratory, nongame birds and are protected by the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. A federal permit is required before any lethal control methods can be employed. Penalties and fines are assessed to violators.
In addition to the federal permit, citizens must inform the local Colorado Parks and Wildlife officer when, where, and the type of lethal control that will be used. Homeowners must also observe all county and city ordinances.
Colorado Parks & Wildlife - Woodpeckers
Luckily mine left my house, and now likes my neighbors. No idea why. If I could have smashed him I would have.