Native Plants: Peoria vs Phoenix
How do native plants rules compare between Peoria, AZ and Phoenix, AZ?
Peoria and Phoenix have similar restriction levels.
Peoria, AZ
Maricopa County
Arizona's Protected Native Plant Law (ARS 3-901) protects saguaro, palo verde, ironwood, and other species. Removal requires a state permit. Peoria encourages desert-adapted landscaping. New development must include native/adapted plants in landscape plans.
View full Peoria 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 | Peoria | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | ARS 3-901 | - |
| Protected Species | Saguaro, palo verde, ironwood, barrel cacti | - |
| Removal Permit | AZ Dept of Agriculture | - |
| New Development | Desert-adapted plants required | - |
| Penalty | Up to $100,000 | - |
| Design | Xeriscape principles encouraged | - |
| 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.
Peoria FAQ
Can I remove a saguaro from my Peoria property?
Not without a permit from the Arizona Department of Agriculture. Penalties can reach $100,000.
Does Peoria require desert landscaping?
New developments must include desert-adapted plants. Existing homeowners are encouraged to use xeriscape.
What about native plants during construction?
Construction projects must comply with the Native Plant Law for salvage or removal of protected species.
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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