Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Mesa vs Scottsdale
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Mesa, AZ and Scottsdale, AZ?
Mesa has fewer restrictions than Scottsdale.
Mesa, AZ
Maricopa County
Mesa does not have a tree preservation ordinance for private residential property. Homeowners can generally remove trees on their own lots without a city permit, though trees in the public right-of-way are city-managed.
View full Mesa rules →Scottsdale, AZ
Maricopa County
Scottsdale's Native Plant Ordinance (Chapter 46, Article V) protects indigenous desert plants citywide. Removal or relocation of protected native plants requires a Native Plant program submission. Violations carry fines up to $10,000. The ordinance covers saguaro cacti, palo verde trees, mesquite, ironwood, and dozens of other protected species.
View full Scottsdale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mesa | Scottsdale |
|---|---|---|
| Private Property | No permit required | - |
| Public Trees | City-managed, protected | - |
| New Development | Landscaping requirements apply | - |
| City Program | Trees Are Cool initiative | - |
| Governing Code | - | Scottsdale Code Chapter 46, Article V — Native Plant Ordinance |
| Adopted | - | 1981 (revised multiple times since) |
| Protected Species | - | Saguaro, palo verde, mesquite, ironwood, barrel cactus, etc. |
| Violation Fine | - | Up to $10,000 per plant |
| Scope | - | Applies citywide to all development and land clearing |
| Plant List | - | Scottsdale Indigenous Plant List maintained by city |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mesa FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Mesa?
No permit is needed to remove trees on private residential property in Mesa. Trees in the public right-of-way are city-managed and cannot be removed without authorization.
Does Mesa have a tree preservation ordinance?
Mesa does not have a residential tree preservation ordinance. New developments must meet landscaping requirements, and the city promotes urban tree planting through its programs.
Scottsdale FAQ
Can I remove a saguaro cactus from my Scottsdale property?
Saguaros are protected under Scottsdale's Native Plant Ordinance. Removal requires a Native Plant Program submission and approval. Unauthorized removal carries fines up to $10,000.
What plants are protected in Scottsdale?
Dozens of species including saguaro, barrel cactus, palo verde, mesquite, ironwood, cholla, prickly pear, and many others listed on the city's Indigenous Plant List.
What if a protected tree is dangerous or dying on my property?
Emergency removal of hazardous trees threatening structures is permitted but should be documented with photos and reported to Planning and Development Services.
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