Native Plants: Phoenix vs Scottsdale
How do native plants rules compare between Phoenix, AZ and Scottsdale, AZ?
Phoenix has fewer restrictions than Scottsdale.
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 →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 | Phoenix | Scottsdale |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| 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.
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.
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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