Native Plants: Gilbert vs Tempe
How do native plants rules compare between Gilbert, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Gilbert has fewer restrictions than Tempe.
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 →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Tempe encourages native and desert-adapted landscaping. Arizona's Protected Native Plant Law (ARS 3-901) protects saguaro, palo verde, ironwood, and other native species from removal without state permits. Tempe's development standards require desert-adapted plants in new construction landscape plans. The city supports water conservation through xeriscape design.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gilbert | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Mandate | New development only | - |
| Existing Homes | Encouraged, not required | - |
| Plant List | Phoenix AMA approved | - |
| Xeriscape | Promoted by town | Encouraged for water conservation |
| State Law | - | ARS 3-901 (Protected Native Plant Law) |
| Protected Species | - | Saguaro, palo verde, ironwood, barrel cacti |
| New Development | - | Desert-adapted plants required in landscape plans |
| Removal Penalty | - | Up to $100,000 for unauthorized native plant removal |
| Rebates | - | Some utilities offer lawn conversion rebates |
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.
Tempe FAQ
Can I remove a saguaro from my Tempe property?
Not without a permit from the Arizona Department of Agriculture. Saguaro and other native plants are protected under ARS 3-901 with penalties up to $100,000.
Does Tempe require desert landscaping?
New developments must include desert-adapted plants. Existing homeowners are encouraged but not required to convert to xeriscape.
Are there rebates for removing my lawn?
Some regional water utilities offer rebates for lawn-to-xeriscape conversions. Check with your water provider.
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