Native Plants: Mesa vs Scottsdale
How do native plants rules compare between Mesa, AZ and Scottsdale, AZ?
Mesa has fewer restrictions than Scottsdale.
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 →Scottsdale, AZ
Maricopa County
Scottsdale's Native Plant Ordinance (Chapter 46, Article V) is one of the most comprehensive in Arizona, protecting dozens of indigenous desert plant species. The Zoning Ordinance Article X (Landscaping Requirements) mandates native and drought-tolerant plantings in new development. Violations of native plant protections carry fines up to $10,000.
View full Scottsdale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mesa | Scottsdale |
|---|---|---|
| Xeriscape Rebate | Up to $1,100 residential | - |
| Plant List | Phoenix AMA approved | - |
| New Development | Low-water plants required | - |
| Design Tool | Online xeriscape planner | - |
| Ordinance | - | Chapter 46, Article V — adopted 1981, revised since |
| Protected Species | - | Saguaro, palo verde, mesquite, ironwood, barrel cactus, ocotillo |
| Landscaping Requirements | - | Zoning Ordinance Article X requires native/drought-tolerant plants |
| Violation Fine | - | Up to $10,000 per plant |
| Educational Resource | - | Xeriscape Garden at Chaparral Park |
| ESLO | - | Strictest native plant protection in overlay areas |
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.
Scottsdale FAQ
What native plants are protected in Scottsdale?
Dozens of species are protected including saguaro, palo verde, mesquite, ironwood, barrel cactus, ocotillo, and all plants on the city's Indigenous Plant List. The ordinance applies citywide.
Do I need to use native plants in my landscaping?
New commercial and multi-family development must comply with Article X landscaping requirements using native and drought-tolerant plants. Residential properties are encouraged but not mandated for existing homes.
Where can I learn about desert-appropriate landscaping for Scottsdale?
Visit the Scottsdale Xeriscape Garden at Chaparral Park or download the city's Residential Landscape Revitalization Workbook from the city website.
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