Native Plants: Gilbert vs Glendale
How do native plants rules compare between Gilbert, AZ and Glendale, AZ?
Gilbert and Glendale have similar restriction levels.
Gilbert, AZ
Maricopa County
Gilbert promotes native and drought-tolerant plants for residential landscaping. New development must use low-water species per the Land Development Code. The town encourages xeriscape over traditional lawns.
View full Gilbert rules →Glendale, AZ
Maricopa County
Glendale encourages desert-adapted and native plant landscaping consistent with the Sonoran Desert environment. The city's landscaping code (Chapter 19) establishes plant lists and standards for commercial and residential developments. Arizona's Protected Native Plant Law (ARS 3-901 et seq.) protects certain native species, including saguaro cacti, from removal without permits from the Arizona Department of Agriculture.
View full Glendale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gilbert | Glendale |
|---|---|---|
| Mandate | New development only | - |
| Existing Homes | Encouraged, not required | - |
| Plant List | Phoenix AMA approved | - |
| Xeriscape | Promoted by town | - |
| City Code | - | Chapter 19 (Landscaping) |
| State Law | - | ARS 3-901 et seq. (Protected Native Plant Law) |
| Protected Species | - | Saguaro, palo verde, ironwood, and others |
| Permit for Removal | - | AZ Dept of Agriculture permit for protected plants |
| Design Approach | - | Xeriscape principles encouraged |
| New Development | - | Desert-adapted plants typically required in landscape plans |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gilbert FAQ
Does Gilbert require native plants?
Not for existing homes, but new development must use low-water species. The town encourages drought-tolerant landscaping through education and conservation programs.
What desert plants does Gilbert recommend?
Species on the Phoenix AMA Low-Water-Use Plant List are recommended. Palo verde, desert willow, and various native shrubs thrive in Gilbert's climate.
Glendale FAQ
Can I remove a saguaro from my property in Glendale?
Saguaro cacti are protected under Arizona's Native Plant Law. You need a permit from the Arizona Department of Agriculture before removing any protected native plant, even on your own property.
Does Glendale require desert landscaping?
New developments must meet the city's landscaping standards, which emphasize desert-adapted plants. Existing homeowners are encouraged but not required to switch to desert landscaping.
What plants does Glendale recommend for landscaping?
The city's approved plant list includes drought-tolerant Sonoran Desert species. Contact the Planning and Zoning division for the current plant list.
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