Native Plants: Gilbert vs Phoenix
How do native plants rules compare between Gilbert, AZ and Phoenix, AZ?
Gilbert has fewer restrictions than Phoenix.
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 →Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Phoenix Zoning Ordinance Section 1309 establishes landscape standards requiring use of approved plant species from the Arizona Department of Water Resources Phoenix AMA-3550 list. Turf and high-water-use plants are limited to 50% of landscape area or 10% of total lot area, whichever is less. Native desert plants are strongly encouraged.
View full Phoenix rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gilbert | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Mandate | New development only | - |
| Existing Homes | Encouraged, not required | - |
| Plant List | Phoenix AMA approved | - |
| Xeriscape | Promoted by town | - |
| Zoning Section | - | Phoenix Zoning Ordinance §1309 |
| Turf Limit | - | 50% of landscape area or 10% of lot, whichever less |
| Approved Species | - | AZ Dept of Water Resources Phoenix AMA-3550 list |
| Right-of-Way | - | No turf in public right-of-way |
| Shade Trees | - | Must be from Table 1309.1 or AMA-3550 list |
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.
Phoenix FAQ
Does Phoenix require native plants in landscaping?
Phoenix does not mandate exclusively native plants but limits turf and high-water-use plants to 50% of landscape area or 10% of total lot area. Shade trees must be from the approved AMA-3550 list, which favors desert-adapted species.
Can I have a grass lawn in Phoenix?
Yes, but turf is limited. Under Zoning Ordinance §1309, turf cannot exceed 50% of the landscape area or 10% of total lot area. Turf is not permitted in the public right-of-way.
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