Protected Tree Species: Goodyear vs Scottsdale
How do protected tree species rules compare between Goodyear, AZ and Scottsdale, AZ?
Goodyear and Scottsdale have similar restriction levels.
Goodyear, AZ
Maricopa County
The Arizona Native Plant Protection Act (ARS Title 3 Chapter 7 Article 1) protects saguaro cactus, ironwood, paloverde, and other native species statewide. Maricopa County zoning Hillside and Desert overlays add development-specific protections.
View full Goodyear rules →Scottsdale, AZ
Maricopa County
The Arizona Native Plant Protection Act (ARS Title 3 Chapter 7 Article 1) protects saguaro cactus, ironwood, paloverde, and other native species statewide. Maricopa County zoning Hillside and Desert overlays add development-specific protections.
View full Scottsdale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Goodyear | Scottsdale |
|---|---|---|
| State law | ARS 3-901 | ARS 3-901 |
| Permit | Notice of Intent to Clear | Notice of Intent to Clear |
| Penalty | Up to $5,000 per plant | Up to $5,000 per plant |
| Saguaro | Highly Safeguarded | Highly Safeguarded |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Goodyear FAQ
Can I cut down the saguaro on my property in Maricopa County?
Not without an Arizona Department of Agriculture Notice of Intent to Clear and proper tagging. Saguaros are Highly Safeguarded under ARS 3-904. Relocation requires a permit; destruction usually does not qualify.
Do I need a permit to trim a paloverde tree?
Trimming live native trees on private land is generally allowed without permit. Removal or destruction of paloverde, ironwood, or mesquite during development requires the Arizona Department of Agriculture clearance process.
Scottsdale FAQ
Can I cut down the saguaro on my property in Maricopa County?
Not without an Arizona Department of Agriculture Notice of Intent to Clear and proper tagging. Saguaros are Highly Safeguarded under ARS 3-904. Relocation requires a permit; destruction usually does not qualify.
Do I need a permit to trim a paloverde tree?
Trimming live native trees on private land is generally allowed without permit. Removal or destruction of paloverde, ironwood, or mesquite during development requires the Arizona Department of Agriculture clearance process.
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