Tree Removal Permits: Goodyear vs Tempe
How do tree removal permits rules compare between Goodyear, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Goodyear and Tempe 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 →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Trees on private residential property in Tempe can generally be removed without a city permit unless they are protected native species under ARS 3-901. Protected species (saguaro, palo verde, ironwood) require an Arizona Department of Agriculture permit. City street trees cannot be removed by residents. New development must include tree preservation in landscape plans.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Goodyear | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Private Non-Protected | - | No city permit generally needed |
| Protected Native | - | AZ Dept of Agriculture permit required (ARS 3-901) |
| City Street Trees | - | Cannot be removed without authorization |
| Neighbor's Trees | - | May trim branches to property line |
| Development | - | Landscape plan must address existing trees |
| Penalty | - | Up to $100,000 for unauthorized native plant removal |
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.
Tempe FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Tempe?
For non-protected species on private property, generally no. For protected native species (saguaro, palo verde, ironwood), an Arizona Department of Agriculture permit is required.
Can I trim my neighbor's tree that hangs over my fence?
You may trim branches back to the property line. You cannot trespass on their property or kill the tree.
Can I remove a city street tree near my property?
No. City street trees are public property and cannot be removed or significantly trimmed without city authorization.
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