Heritage & Protected Trees: Marana vs Oro Valley
How do heritage & protected trees rules compare between Marana, AZ and Oro Valley, AZ?
Marana and Oro Valley have similar restriction levels.
Marana, AZ
Pima County
Marana Land Development Code Chapter 17-11 requires 100 percent preservation of crested saguaros and federally listed endangered species on development sites. At least 50 percent of all viable saguaros and ironwood trees must be preserved in place or transplanted on site.
View full Marana rules →Oro Valley, AZ
Pima County
Saguaros are protected under ARS 3-904 -- destroying one is a Class 4 felony (up to $100,000 fine). Town Code Chapter 24 adds local preservation requirements.
View full Oro Valley rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Marana | Oro Valley |
|---|---|---|
| Crested Saguaro | 100% preservation required | - |
| Standard Saguaro | 50% preservation required | - |
| Ironwood Trees | 50% preservation required | - |
| State Law | ARS Title 3, Chapter 7 | - |
| Felony Threshold | $1,500+ plant value (Class 4) | - |
| Saguaro Protection | - | Class 4 felony to destroy (ARS 3-904) |
| Penalty | - | Prison time and fines up to $100,000 |
| Local Code | - | Town Code Chapter 24 preservation requirements |
| Priority Preservation | - | Saguaros over 6 ft given highest priority |
| Other Heritage Species | - | Palo verde, ironwood, velvet mesquite |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Marana FAQ
Can I remove a saguaro cactus from my property in Marana?
On residential lots with existing construction under 10 acres, you may remove a saguaro but should obtain a salvage permit from the Arizona Department of Agriculture (ARS 3-906). For development projects, at least 50 percent of viable saguaros must be preserved or transplanted per Section 17-11-5.
Is cutting down a saguaro a felony in Arizona?
It can be. Under ARS 3-932, theft of protected native plants valued at $1,500 or more is a Class 4 felony punishable by 1 to 3.75 years in prison. Unauthorized collection without a permit is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
What is a crested saguaro and why does it get extra protection?
A crested (cristate) saguaro has a fan-shaped growth at the top instead of normal arms. These rare mutations receive 100 percent preservation protection under Marana Section 17-11-5 because of their ecological and scientific significance.
Oro Valley FAQ
Who enforces this in Oro Valley?
Oro Valley Code Compliance at (520) 229-4700.
Who enforces this in Oro Valley?
Oro Valley Code Compliance at (520) 229-4700 handles most complaints.
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