Heritage & Protected Trees: Marana vs Tucson
How do heritage & protected trees rules compare between Marana, AZ and Tucson, AZ?
Marana and Tucson 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 →Tucson, AZ
Pima County
Tucson protects heritage and specimen trees, particularly mature native desert trees, through its Native Plant Preservation Ordinance and the Environmental Resource Zone overlay. Large, mature saguaro cacti (especially those over 6 feet tall), old-growth ironwood, and mesquite trees of significant size are given special consideration in development review. The city's Urban Forestry Division manages heritage trees on public property.
View full Tucson rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Marana | Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| 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) | - |
| Protection Framework | - | Native Plant Ordinance + ERZ overlay |
| Key Species | - | Saguaro, ironwood, old-growth mesquite |
| Saguaro Age | - | ~75 years to grow first arm |
| Development Review | - | Preservation required in ERZ |
| Urban Forestry | - | Manages public heritage trees |
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.
Tucson FAQ
Does Tucson have a heritage tree program?
Tucson does not have a formal heritage tree registry, but large, mature native trees and cacti are protected through the Native Plant Preservation Ordinance, the Environmental Resource Zone, and development review processes. Mature saguaros and old-growth ironwood receive the highest protection.
Can I remove a large saguaro on my property?
Removing a saguaro, especially a mature specimen, requires a permit. Saguaros take decades to grow and are protected under both state and city law. Contact PDSD before removing or transplanting any saguaro cactus.
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