Parkway Planting: Mesa vs Tempe
How do parkway planting rules compare between Mesa, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Mesa and Tempe have similar restriction levels.
Mesa, AZ
Maricopa County
Maricopa County Code Title VII regulates planting in road rights-of-way. Cities like Phoenix and Scottsdale set their own parkway and median tree standards. Approved species lists, clear-vision triangles, and irrigation rules apply to all street-tree plantings.
View full Mesa rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Maricopa County Code Title VII regulates planting in road rights-of-way. Cities like Phoenix and Scottsdale set their own parkway and median tree standards. Approved species lists, clear-vision triangles, and irrigation rules apply to all street-tree plantings.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mesa | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| County permit | MCDOT required | MCDOT required |
| Vision triangle | 25 feet | 25 feet |
| Sidewalk clearance | 7 feet vertical | 7 feet vertical |
| Phoenix plan | Tree and Shade | Tree and Shade |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mesa FAQ
Can I plant a tree on the strip between my sidewalk and street?
Yes, but only with city permit and from the approved species list. Phoenix requires Tree and Shade Plan compliance. Scottsdale uses its Streetscape Design Standards. The county requires MCDOT approval in unincorporated areas.
Who is responsible for the tree in my parkway?
In most Maricopa cities, the adjacent property owner maintains parkway trees including watering and pruning. The city retains removal authority and species approval. Median trees are city-maintained except in HOA enhanced-maintenance districts.
Tempe FAQ
Can I plant a tree on the strip between my sidewalk and street?
Yes, but only with city permit and from the approved species list. Phoenix requires Tree and Shade Plan compliance. Scottsdale uses its Streetscape Design Standards. The county requires MCDOT approval in unincorporated areas.
Who is responsible for the tree in my parkway?
In most Maricopa cities, the adjacent property owner maintains parkway trees including watering and pruning. The city retains removal authority and species approval. Median trees are city-maintained except in HOA enhanced-maintenance districts.
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