Tree Removal Permits: Marana vs Tucson
How do tree removal permits rules compare between Marana, AZ and Tucson, AZ?
Marana and Tucson have similar restriction levels.
Marana, AZ
Pima County
Removing protected native plants including saguaro cacti, ironwood, and palo verde trees requires a permit from the Arizona Department of Agriculture under ARS 3-904. Marana Land Development Code requires native plant salvage plans for new development.
View full Marana rules →Tucson, AZ
Pima County
Tucson has strong native plant protection through the Arizona Native Plant Law (ARS 3-904) and the city's Native Plant Preservation Ordinance. Removal of protected native trees and plants on development sites requires a permit from PDSD. The city also regulates tree removal on public property and within the Environmental Resource Zone. Saguaro cacti, ironwood, palo verde, and mesquite trees receive significant protection.
View full Tucson rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Marana | Tucson |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | ARS 3-904 (Arizona Native Plant Law) | - |
| Protected Trees | Ironwood, palo verde, mesquite, saguaro | - |
| Permit Authority | Arizona Department of Agriculture | - |
| Development | Salvage plan required | - |
| Non-Native Trees | No state permit needed | - |
| Governing Law | - | ARS 3-904 + City Native Plant Ordinance |
| Protected Species | - | Saguaro, ironwood, palo verde, mesquite |
| Permit Required | - | Yes — for protected native species |
| Salvage | - | Transplantation required when feasible |
| Fine | - | Up to $500 per plant + replacement |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Marana FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Marana?
Protected native trees (ironwood, palo verde, mesquite) and cacti (saguaro, barrel) require a permit from the Arizona Department of Agriculture. Non-native ornamental trees do not require a state permit.
What is a native plant salvage plan?
A plan required for new development that identifies all protected native plants on the site and specifies which will be preserved, transplanted, or removed with appropriate permits.
Tucson FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Tucson?
It depends on the species. Protected native trees (saguaro, ironwood, palo verde, mesquite, and others) require a permit for removal. Non-native ornamental trees on private property generally do not require a permit. Trees on public property require city authorization.
What native plants are protected in Tucson?
Arizona's Native Plant Law and Tucson's ordinance protect saguaro cacti, ironwood, palo verde, mesquite, and many other desert species. A complete list is available from PDSD. Protected plants must be salvaged rather than destroyed when development occurs.
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