Heritage & Protected Trees: Goodyear vs Tempe
How do heritage & protected trees rules compare between Goodyear, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Goodyear has fewer restrictions than Tempe.
Goodyear, AZ
Maricopa County
Goodyear does not have a formal heritage tree or landmark tree ordinance for private property. The city's Urban Forestry Department manages and protects trees on public land under Chapter 27. Arizona's Native Plant Law (ARS §3-904) protects native plants including saguaro cacti on undeveloped land. HOAs may designate significant trees in common areas as protected under CC&Rs.
View full Goodyear rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Tempe protects significant trees through its landscape standards in the Zoning and Development Code. Arizona's Protected Native Plant Law (ARS 3-901) protects native desert trees statewide. During development review, Tempe requires tree preservation plans for significant existing trees. Mature shade trees are increasingly valued for urban heat island mitigation.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Goodyear | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Heritage Tree Ordinance | None for private property | - |
| Native Plant Law | ARS §3-904 protects native species | - |
| Saguaro Cacti | Protected, permit required to remove | - |
| Public Trees | Protected under Chapter 27 | - |
| Contact | (623) 932-3200 Urban Forestry | - |
| State Law | - | ARS 3-901 (Protected Native Plant Law) |
| Development Review | - | Tree preservation plans may be required |
| Native Species | - | State permit required for removal |
| Street Trees | - | City managed, no unauthorized removal |
| Heat Island | - | Trees valued for cooling urban areas |
| Penalty | - | Up to $100,000 for unauthorized native plant removal |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Goodyear FAQ
Does Goodyear have a heritage tree ordinance?
No. Goodyear does not designate heritage or landmark trees on private property. Public trees are protected under Chapter 27. Arizona's Native Plant Law protects native species like saguaros on undeveloped land.
Can I remove a saguaro cactus from my property in Goodyear?
On developed residential lots, you generally can with HOA approval if applicable. On undeveloped land, saguaros are protected under ARS §3-904 and require an Arizona Department of Agriculture permit. Salvage and relocation are often required.
Are any trees protected on private property in Goodyear?
The city does not protect trees on developed private property. However, your HOA may restrict removal of trees in front yards or specified in landscape plans. Native plants on undeveloped land are protected under state law.
Tempe FAQ
Are there protected trees in Tempe?
Yes. Protected native species under ARS 3-901 (palo verde, ironwood, saguaro, etc.) need state permits for removal. City street trees are also protected.
Can I remove a tree from my property?
Non-protected species can generally be removed. Protected native plants need an Arizona Department of Agriculture permit. City street trees cannot be removed by residents.
Why does Tempe value shade trees?
Mature trees provide critical cooling in the urban heat island, reducing temperatures significantly. The city actively works to increase tree canopy cover.
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