Native Plants: Gilbert vs Scottsdale
How do native plants rules compare between Gilbert, AZ and Scottsdale, AZ?
Gilbert has fewer restrictions than Scottsdale.
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 →Scottsdale, AZ
Maricopa County
Scottsdale's Native Plant Ordinance (Chapter 46, Article V) is one of the most comprehensive in Arizona, protecting dozens of indigenous desert plant species. The Zoning Ordinance Article X (Landscaping Requirements) mandates native and drought-tolerant plantings in new development. Violations of native plant protections carry fines up to $10,000.
View full Scottsdale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gilbert | Scottsdale |
|---|---|---|
| Mandate | New development only | - |
| Existing Homes | Encouraged, not required | - |
| Plant List | Phoenix AMA approved | - |
| Xeriscape | Promoted by town | - |
| Ordinance | - | Chapter 46, Article V — adopted 1981, revised since |
| Protected Species | - | Saguaro, palo verde, mesquite, ironwood, barrel cactus, ocotillo |
| Landscaping Requirements | - | Zoning Ordinance Article X requires native/drought-tolerant plants |
| Violation Fine | - | Up to $10,000 per plant |
| Educational Resource | - | Xeriscape Garden at Chaparral Park |
| ESLO | - | Strictest native plant protection in overlay areas |
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.
Scottsdale FAQ
What native plants are protected in Scottsdale?
Dozens of species are protected including saguaro, palo verde, mesquite, ironwood, barrel cactus, ocotillo, and all plants on the city's Indigenous Plant List. The ordinance applies citywide.
Do I need to use native plants in my landscaping?
New commercial and multi-family development must comply with Article X landscaping requirements using native and drought-tolerant plants. Residential properties are encouraged but not mandated for existing homes.
Where can I learn about desert-appropriate landscaping for Scottsdale?
Visit the Scottsdale Xeriscape Garden at Chaparral Park or download the city's Residential Landscape Revitalization Workbook from the city website.
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