Native Plants: Green Valley vs Oro Valley
How do native plants rules compare between Green Valley, AZ and Oro Valley, AZ?
Green Valley has fewer restrictions than Oro Valley.
Green Valley, AZ
Pima County
Pima County Zoning Code Chapter 18.72 (Native Plant Preservation) requires protection and salvage of certain native plants during development. Saguaro cacti, ironwood, palo verde, and mesquite are specifically protected. Arizona Native Plant Law (ARS 3-901 et seq.) requires permits to destroy or relocate protected plants.
View full Green Valley rules →Oro Valley, AZ
Pima County
New development must use 50 percent or more native species in landscaping. ARS 3-904 protects saguaro, ironwood, and barrel cactus from removal without state permits.
View full Oro Valley rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Green Valley | Oro Valley |
|---|---|---|
| County Code | Chapter 18.72 Native Plant Preservation | - |
| Protected Plants | Saguaro, ironwood, palo verde, barrel cactus | - |
| State Law | ARS 3-901 through 3-934 | ARS 3-904 protects native species |
| Saguaro Removal | Notify AZ Dept of Agriculture 20-60 days prior | - |
| Landscape Standard | Sonoran xeriscape for new development | - |
| Development Standard | - | 50%+ native plant palette required |
| Protected Species | - | Saguaro, ironwood, barrel cactus |
| Incentives | - | Water Utility rebates for native conversion |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Green Valley FAQ
Can I remove a saguaro from my property?
Yes, but you must notify the Arizona Department of Agriculture 20-60 days before removal (ARS 3-906). Destroying a saguaro on someone else's land without permission is a Class 4 felony.
What does Pima County require for native plants during development?
Chapter 18.72 requires developers to survey, tag, and either preserve or transplant protected native plants. This applies to all new development in unincorporated areas.
Oro Valley FAQ
Can I plant non-native species in my Oro Valley yard?
Existing homeowners may plant non-native species, though the Town encourages native and drought-tolerant choices. New development must meet minimum native plant requirements in their approved landscape plans.
What happens if I remove a saguaro without a permit?
Removing a saguaro without an Arizona Department of Agriculture permit violates ARS 3-904 and is a Class 4 felony with potential fines up to $100,000.
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