Tree Removal Permits: Goodyear vs Scottsdale
How do tree removal permits rules compare between Goodyear, AZ and Scottsdale, AZ?
Goodyear has fewer restrictions than Scottsdale.
Goodyear, AZ
Maricopa County
Goodyear Code Chapter 27, Article 1 (Tree Care and Management) regulates tree removal on public property and within public rights-of-way. The city's Urban Forestry Department manages the urban forest canopy. Private property tree removal does not require a city permit in most cases, but trees within HOA common areas and PAD landscape plans may require approval.
View full Goodyear rules →Scottsdale, AZ
Maricopa County
Scottsdale requires a Native Plant Program submission and approval before removing any protected native plants, including trees. Protected species include saguaro, palo verde, mesquite, ironwood, and dozens of others. Removal without approval carries fines up to $10,000 per plant.
View full Scottsdale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Goodyear | Scottsdale |
|---|---|---|
| City Code | Chapter 27, Article 1 | - |
| Private Property | Generally no city permit required | - |
| Public Trees | Urban Forestry approval required | - |
| Native Plants | ARS §3-904 protections on undeveloped land | - |
| Contact | (623) 932-3200 Urban Forestry | - |
| Required Submission | - | Native Plant Program through Planning & Development |
| Protected Species | - | Saguaro, palo verde, mesquite, ironwood, barrel cactus, etc. |
| Approval Process | - | Preserve > Relocate > Replace (in order of preference) |
| Fine | - | Up to $10,000 per protected plant removed without approval |
| ESLO Areas | - | More rigorous review; preservation strongly emphasized |
| Emergency Removal | - | Document and report to city promptly |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Goodyear FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree on my property in Goodyear?
Generally no city permit is required for private property tree removal. However, check with your HOA — most Goodyear communities require architectural review approval for tree removal, especially in front yards. Trees in approved landscape plans may also be protected.
Who manages street trees in Goodyear?
The Urban Forestry Department manages all trees on public property and rights-of-way. Do not trim or remove street trees without contacting Urban Forestry through (623) 932-3200. The city handles maintenance and replacement of public trees.
Are any trees protected in Goodyear?
Trees on public property are protected under Chapter 27. Native desert plants (like saguaros) on undeveloped land are protected under Arizona's Native Plant Law (ARS §3-904). Trees required by PAD landscape plans may also have protections.
Scottsdale FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Scottsdale?
If the tree is on the city's protected Indigenous Plant List, you must submit and receive approval for a Native Plant Program before removal. Fines up to $10,000 per plant apply for unauthorized removal.
How do I know if my tree is protected?
Check the Scottsdale Indigenous Plant List available on the city website. Protected species include saguaro, palo verde, mesquite, ironwood, and many others. When in doubt, contact Planning and Development Services.
Can I remove a dead protected tree?
Dead protected plants may be removed, but it is advisable to document the condition with photos and notify Planning and Development Services, especially in ESLO areas.
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