Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Goodyear vs Tempe
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Goodyear, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Goodyear has fewer restrictions than Tempe.
Goodyear, AZ
Maricopa County
Goodyear has no heritage tree ordinance. The Zoning Administrator may authorize tree removal for safety reasons. Property owners can generally remove trees on private lots. HOAs may require approval for visible tree removal.
View full Goodyear rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Tempe does not require a permit to remove trees on private residential property in most cases. However, trees in the public right-of-way are protected and cannot be removed without city authorization. Native desert trees may have additional protections under state law.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Goodyear | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Heritage Trees | No heritage tree ordinance | - |
| Private Property | Generally no permit needed | - |
| Safety Removal | Zoning Administrator authority | - |
| HOAs | May require approval for visible trees | - |
| Private Trees | - | No permit generally required |
| Public Trees | - | City authorization required |
| Native Plants | - | Protected under ARS 3-904 |
| Saguaro | - | Special protection under state law |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Goodyear FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Goodyear?
Generally no for private property trees. Goodyear has no heritage tree protections.
Can the city remove a tree on my property?
The Zoning Administrator may authorize removal for safety reasons. City maintains trees in rights-of-way.
Tempe FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Tempe?
Generally not for trees on private property. Public right-of-way trees require city authorization. Certain native species like saguaros are protected by state law.
Can I remove a saguaro cactus from my property?
Saguaro cacti are protected under Arizona law. Contact the Arizona Department of Agriculture before removing or transplanting a saguaro.
Compare other topics
See how Goodyear and Tempe compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool