Heat Island Mitigation: Phoenix vs Surprise
How do heat island mitigation rules compare between Phoenix, AZ and Surprise, AZ?
Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
The Phoenix Heat Action Plan, adopted 2023, targets 25 percent tree-canopy coverage citywide, expands cool pavement and cool roofs, opens cooling centers during heat events, and runs the Office of Heat Response and Mitigation, the first such municipal office in the United States.
View full Phoenix rules →Surprise, AZ
Maricopa County
No data available yet for Surprise.
Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Phoenix | Surprise |
|---|---|---|
| Plan adopted | 2023 | - |
| Tree-canopy goal | 25% citywide | - |
| Lead office | Office of Heat Response and Mitigation | - |
| Heat Relief Network | 200+ partner sites countywide | - |
| Cool Corridors program | Shade trees along walking routes | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Phoenix FAQ
Where is the nearest cooling center?
Call 211 Arizona or check phoenix.gov/heat during heat advisories. Libraries, senior centers, and Salvation Army Heat Relief Network sites serve as cooling locations with water and extended hours during declared events.
Can I get a free shade tree?
Phoenix's Office of Sustainability and the Cool Corridors program plant shade trees in selected neighborhoods. Residents can apply through phoenix.gov/sustainability; staff confirm parkway eligibility and species per Phoenix Tree and Shade Master Plan standards.
Are landlords required to provide air conditioning?
Yes. Arizona ARS 33-1324 requires landlords to maintain working cooling that keeps interior temperatures below 82 degrees in evaporative-cooled units or 86 degrees in refrigerated units, enforced through state landlord-tenant law.
Surprise FAQ
No FAQs available.
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