Tree Removal Permits: Goodyear vs Surprise
How do tree removal permits rules compare between Goodyear, AZ and Surprise, AZ?
Goodyear and Surprise have similar restriction levels.
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 →Surprise, AZ
Maricopa County
Tree removal permits in Maricopa County are required only for protected native species under Arizona's Native Plant Law (ARS 3-901+). A permit from the Arizona Department of Agriculture is needed before removing saguaro, barrel cactus, ironwood, palo verde, mesquite, and other protected species. Non-protected trees on private property can be removed without a permit. Development projects may require native plant surveys and salvage plans.
View full Surprise rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Goodyear | Surprise |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Protected Species | - | AZDA permit required for removal |
| Non-Protected | - | No permit required |
| State Law | - | ARS 3-901+ Native Plant Law |
| Development | - | Native plant survey may be required |
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.
Surprise FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a non-native tree?
No. Non-native and non-protected trees on private property in unincorporated Maricopa County can be removed without a permit.
How do I get a permit to remove a protected native tree?
Contact the Arizona Department of Agriculture, Plant Services Division. They issue permits for removal, salvage, or transplanting of protected native species.
Does tree removal require any inspections?
For protected native species, the Arizona Department of Agriculture may inspect the site. For non-protected trees, no county inspection is required.
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