Brush Clearance: Goodyear vs Phoenix
How do brush clearance rules compare between Goodyear, AZ and Phoenix, AZ?
Phoenix has fewer restrictions than Goodyear.
Goodyear, AZ
Maricopa County
Goodyear requires property owners to maintain vegetation and clear combustible debris. Weeds and grass must not exceed 6 inches in height. Property maintenance provisions and fire code require defensible space. Vacant lots along desert edges are particularly vulnerable.
View full Goodyear rules →Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Phoenix does not have a mandatory defensible space or brush clearance ordinance. The city's low-desert urban environment presents minimal wildfire risk. The Neighborhood Preservation Ordinance (Chapter 39) requires properties to be free of dead vegetation and fire hazards. The Phoenix Fire Department conducts fire prevention activities but does not mandate specific brush clearance distances.
View full Phoenix rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Goodyear | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Weed Height | 6 inches maximum | - |
| Governing Code | Section 10-4-4 and Fire Code | - |
| Vacant Lots | Owner responsible for maintenance | - |
| Enforcement | Goodyear Code Compliance | - |
| Mandate | - | No mandatory brush clearance |
| Climate | - | Low desert, minimal wildfire risk |
| Property Maintenance | - | Dead vegetation must be removed |
| Code | - | Chapter 39 Neighborhood Preservation |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Goodyear FAQ
How tall can weeds be in Goodyear?
Weeds and grass must not exceed 6 inches. Excessive vegetation creates fire hazards in the desert climate.
Who clears vacant lots in Goodyear?
The property owner is responsible. The city may clear and bill the owner if they fail to comply.
Phoenix FAQ
Does Phoenix require defensible space around homes?
No. Phoenix does not have a mandatory brush clearance or defensible space ordinance. The Neighborhood Preservation Ordinance does require removal of dead vegetation and fire hazards from properties.
When does Phoenix inspect properties for brush-clearance compliance?
Phoenix typically conducts annual pre-fire-season inspections (May through July in arid regions), with follow-up inspections after warnings. Properties failing to abate hazards may be cleared by city contractors with the cost billed as a property lien.
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