Native Plants: Glendale vs Scottsdale
How do native plants rules compare between Glendale, AZ and Scottsdale, AZ?
Glendale has fewer restrictions than Scottsdale.
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 →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 | Glendale | Scottsdale |
|---|---|---|
| City Code | Chapter 19 (Landscaping) | - |
| State Law | ARS 3-901 et seq. (Protected Native Plant Law) | - |
| Protected Species | Saguaro, palo verde, ironwood, and others | Saguaro, palo verde, mesquite, ironwood, barrel cactus, ocotillo |
| 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 | - |
| Ordinance | - | Chapter 46, Article V — adopted 1981, revised since |
| 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.
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.
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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