Tree Protection in Tempe, AZ (2026)
3 verified tree protection rules for Tempe, Arizona, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Tree Removal Permits
Trees on private residential property in Tempe can generally be removed without a city permit unless they are protected native species under ARS 3-901. Protected species (saguaro, palo verde, ironwood) require an Arizona Department of Agriculture permit. City street trees cannot be removed by residents. New development must include tree preservation in landscape plans.
Tempe Tree Removal Permits
Some RestrictionsAriz. Rev. Stat. § 3-904 (Destruction of Protected Plants by Private Landowners)
This chapter does not prevent the destruction of protected native plants or clearing of land or cleaning or removing protected native plants by the owner of the land or the owner's agent if: 1. The land is in private ownership. 2. The protected native plants are not transported from the land or offered for sale. 3. The owner or the owner's agent notifies the department pursuant t...
Heritage & Protected Trees
Tempe protects significant trees through its landscape standards in the Zoning and Development Code. Arizona's Protected Native Plant Law (ARS 3-901) protects native desert trees statewide. During development review, Tempe requires tree preservation plans for significant existing trees. Mature shade trees are increasingly valued for urban heat island mitigation.
Tempe Heritage Tree Protections
Some RestrictionsAriz. Rev. Stat. § 3-904 (Destruction of Protected Plants by Private Landowners)
This chapter does not prevent the destruction of protected native plants or clearing of land or cleaning or removing protected native plants by the owner of the land or the owner's agent if: 1. The land is in private ownership. 2. The protected native plants are not transported from the land or offered for sale. 3. The owner or the owner's agent notifies the department pursuant t...
Tree Replacement Requirements
Tempe's Zoning and Development Code requires tree replacement when significant trees are removed during development. The city values shade trees for urban heat island mitigation. Replacement trees should be desert-adapted species from the approved plant list. The city's urban forestry program works to increase canopy cover across Tempe.
Tempe Tree Replacement Requirements
Some RestrictionsLooking for Maricopa County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Tempe city rules.
Tree Protection in Maricopa County →