Heritage & Protected Trees: Goodyear vs Peoria
How do heritage & protected trees rules compare between Goodyear, AZ and Peoria, AZ?
Goodyear has fewer restrictions than Peoria.
Goodyear, AZ
Maricopa County
Goodyear does not have a formal heritage tree or landmark tree ordinance for private property. The city's Urban Forestry Department manages and protects trees on public land under Chapter 27. Arizona's Native Plant Law (ARS §3-904) protects native plants including saguaro cacti on undeveloped land. HOAs may designate significant trees in common areas as protected under CC&Rs.
View full Goodyear rules →Peoria, AZ
Maricopa County
Arizona's Protected Native Plant Law (ARS 3-901) protects native trees statewide. Peoria requires tree preservation in development landscape plans. Native species (saguaro, palo verde, ironwood) need state permits for removal. Shade trees valued for urban heat mitigation.
View full Peoria rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Goodyear | Peoria |
|---|---|---|
| Heritage Tree Ordinance | None for private property | - |
| Native Plant Law | ARS §3-904 protects native species | - |
| Saguaro Cacti | Protected, permit required to remove | - |
| Public Trees | Protected under Chapter 27 | - |
| Contact | (623) 932-3200 Urban Forestry | - |
| State Law | - | ARS 3-901 |
| Protected Species | - | Saguaro, palo verde, ironwood |
| Development | - | Tree preservation in landscape plans |
| Street Trees | - | City managed |
| Heat | - | Shade valued for cooling |
| Penalty | - | Up to $100,000 for unauthorized removal |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Goodyear FAQ
Does Goodyear have a heritage tree ordinance?
No. Goodyear does not designate heritage or landmark trees on private property. Public trees are protected under Chapter 27. Arizona's Native Plant Law protects native species like saguaros on undeveloped land.
Can I remove a saguaro cactus from my property in Goodyear?
On developed residential lots, you generally can with HOA approval if applicable. On undeveloped land, saguaros are protected under ARS §3-904 and require an Arizona Department of Agriculture permit. Salvage and relocation are often required.
Are any trees protected on private property in Goodyear?
The city does not protect trees on developed private property. However, your HOA may restrict removal of trees in front yards or specified in landscape plans. Native plants on undeveloped land are protected under state law.
Peoria FAQ
Are there protected trees in Peoria?
Yes. Protected native species need state permits for removal. City street trees are also protected.
Can I remove a tree from my property?
Non-protected species generally yes. Protected natives need an AZ Dept of Agriculture permit.
Does Peoria protect shade trees?
Shade trees are valued for heat mitigation. Development must address existing trees in landscape plans.
Compare other topics
See how Goodyear and Peoria compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool