Brush Clearance: Goodyear vs Tempe
How do brush clearance rules compare between Goodyear, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Goodyear and Tempe have similar restriction levels.
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 →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Tempe's fire prevention code (Chapter 14) requires property owners to maintain vegetation and remove fire hazards. The city adopted the International Fire Code. Dry brush, dead vegetation, and accumulated debris must be cleared. Tempe's urban setting reduces wildfire risk, but the Sonoran Desert climate creates seasonal fire hazards from dried vegetation during the pre-monsoon dry season (April-June).
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Goodyear | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Weed Height | 6 inches maximum | - |
| Governing Code | Section 10-4-4 and Fire Code | - |
| Vacant Lots | Owner responsible for maintenance | - |
| Enforcement | Goodyear Code Compliance | Tempe Fire Department and Code Compliance |
| City Code | - | Chapter 14 (Fire Prevention and Protection) |
| Fire Code | - | International Fire Code as adopted |
| Dry Season | - | April-June highest fire risk |
| Common Hazard | - | Dead palm fronds, dried native vegetation |
| Mutual Aid | - | Maricopa County mutual aid system |
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.
Tempe FAQ
Do I need to clear brush around my Tempe home?
Yes. Property owners must remove dead vegetation, dried brush, and combustible debris. Dead palm fronds are a common fire hazard that should be removed.
When is the highest fire risk in Tempe?
The pre-monsoon dry season (April-June) is the highest fire risk period. Vegetation dries out and becomes combustible.
Who enforces vegetation clearance?
The Tempe Fire Department and Code Compliance enforce fire prevention and vegetation management requirements.
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