Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Green Valley vs Tucson
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Green Valley, AZ and Tucson, AZ?
Green Valley and Tucson have similar restriction levels.
Green Valley, AZ
Pima County
Saguaro removal requires state permits (ARS §3-904) throughout unincorporated Pima County. Native plant protections apply on development sites per county zoning code. Unauthorized saguaro removal is a Class 4 felony.
View full Green Valley rules →Tucson, AZ
Pima County
Tucson's Native Plant Preservation Ordinance protects saguaros, ironwood, palo verde, and mesquite on development sites. Saguaro removal requires both state (ARS §3-904) and city permits. Unauthorized saguaro removal is a Class 4 felony.
View full Tucson rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Green Valley | Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| Saguaro | Protected — state permit required | Protected — dual permit required |
| Felony | Unauthorized removal ARS §3-904 | Unauthorized removal ARS §3-904 |
| Protected Species | Native vegetation on dev. sites | Ironwood, palo verde, mesquite |
| Code | Pima County Zoning Code Title 18 | - |
| Fine Range | - | $500–$10,000 per plant |
| Heritage Trees | - | Up to 3:1 replacement |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Green Valley FAQ
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in Pima County?
Saguaro removal requires state permits (ARS §3-904) throughout unincorporated Pima County. Native plant protections apply on development sites per county zoning code. Unauthorized saguaro removal is a Class 4 felony.
What are the tree removal rules in Pima County?
Saguaro: Protected — state permit required. Felony: Unauthorized removal ARS §3-904. Protected Species: Native vegetation on dev. sites. Code: Pima County Zoning Code Title 18.
Tucson FAQ
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in Tucson?
Tucson's Native Plant Preservation Ordinance protects saguaros, ironwood, palo verde, and mesquite on development sites. Saguaro removal requires both state (ARS §3-904) and city permits. Unauthorized saguaro removal is a Class 4 felony.
What are the tree removal rules in Tucson?
Saguaro: Protected — dual permit required. Felony: Unauthorized removal ARS §3-904. Protected Species: Ironwood, palo verde, mesquite. Fine Range: $500–$10,000 per plant.
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