Tree Protection in Phoenix, AZ (2026)
4 verified tree protection rules for Phoenix, Arizona, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Tree Removal Permits
Phoenix requires permits for removing protected native trees and trees over 6 inches in diameter, per City Code Chapter 34 and the Tree and Shade Ordinance. Street trees on public property or rights-of-way always require city approval. Arizona also requires 20-60 day notification to the Department of Agriculture before destroying protected native plants.
Phoenix Tree Removal Permit Rules
Some RestrictionsHeritage & Protected Trees
Phoenix protects historic and heritage trees under its Tree and Shade Ordinance and City Code Chapter 34. Protected species include native desert trees such as palo verde, mesquite, and ironwood. The city may designate additional trees as heritage trees. Unauthorized removal can result in fines of $500-$5,000 and mandatory replanting.
Phoenix Heritage & Protected Tree Rules
Some RestrictionsTree Replacement Requirements
Phoenix's Tree and Shade Master Plan requires replanting or replacement of removed trees in many cases. Residents may need to select appropriate replacement trees from approved species lists (AMA-3550), pay a fee, or plant multiple trees depending on the size of the removed tree. The goal is maintaining the urban tree canopy.
Phoenix Tree Replacement Requirements
Some RestrictionsTree Ordinances
Phoenix has a Tree and Shade Master Plan and enforces tree preservation requirements through its zoning ordinance and development standards. Protected native trees, including Palo Verde, Ironwood, and Mesquite species, are regulated under the city's Native Plant Ordinance (Chapter 6, Section 6-8). Developers must preserve or relocate protected native trees on development sites.
Phoenix Tree Ordinances
Some RestrictionsLooking for Maricopa County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Phoenix city rules.
Tree Protection in Maricopa County →