Native Plants: Mesa vs Phoenix
How do native plants rules compare between Mesa, AZ and Phoenix, AZ?
Mesa has fewer restrictions than Phoenix.
Mesa, AZ
Maricopa County
Mesa actively promotes native and drought-tolerant plants through its Grass-to-Xeriscape program and water conservation initiatives. New developments must incorporate low-water landscaping under the zoning code.
View full Mesa rules →Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Phoenix Zoning Ordinance Section 1309 establishes landscape standards requiring use of approved plant species from the Arizona Department of Water Resources Phoenix AMA-3550 list. Turf and high-water-use plants are limited to 50% of landscape area or 10% of total lot area, whichever is less. Native desert plants are strongly encouraged.
View full Phoenix rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mesa | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Xeriscape Rebate | Up to $1,100 residential | - |
| Plant List | Phoenix AMA approved | - |
| New Development | Low-water plants required | - |
| Design Tool | Online xeriscape planner | - |
| Zoning Section | - | Phoenix Zoning Ordinance §1309 |
| Turf Limit | - | 50% of landscape area or 10% of lot, whichever less |
| Approved Species | - | AZ Dept of Water Resources Phoenix AMA-3550 list |
| Right-of-Way | - | No turf in public right-of-way |
| Shade Trees | - | Must be from Table 1309.1 or AMA-3550 list |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mesa FAQ
Does Mesa require native plants?
Mesa does not mandate native plants for existing homes but requires low-water landscaping for new development. Rebate programs incentivize conversion to drought-tolerant species.
What plants qualify for Mesa's xeriscape rebate?
Plants must be on the Phoenix AMA Low-Water-Use/Drought-Tolerant Plant List. Mesa's xeriscape program website provides detailed lists and a design planning tool.
Phoenix FAQ
Does Phoenix require native plants in landscaping?
Phoenix does not mandate exclusively native plants but limits turf and high-water-use plants to 50% of landscape area or 10% of total lot area. Shade trees must be from the approved AMA-3550 list, which favors desert-adapted species.
Can I have a grass lawn in Phoenix?
Yes, but turf is limited. Under Zoning Ordinance §1309, turf cannot exceed 50% of the landscape area or 10% of total lot area. Turf is not permitted in the public right-of-way.
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