Tree Ordinances: Phoenix vs Surprise
How do tree ordinances rules compare between Phoenix, AZ and Surprise, AZ?
Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Phoenix has a Tree and Shade Master Plan and enforces tree preservation requirements through its zoning ordinance and development standards. Protected native trees, including Palo Verde, Ironwood, and Mesquite species, are regulated under the city's Native Plant Ordinance (Chapter 6, Section 6-8). Developers must preserve or relocate protected native trees on development sites.
View full Phoenix rules →Surprise, AZ
Maricopa County
No data available yet for Surprise.
Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Phoenix | Surprise |
|---|---|---|
| Protected Species | Palo Verde, Ironwood, Saguaro, Mesquite | - |
| Governing Code | Chapter 6, Section 6-8 (Native Plant Ordinance) | - |
| Canopy Goal | 25% coverage (Tree and Shade Master Plan) | - |
| First Offense Fine | Up to $2,500 per plant | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Phoenix FAQ
Does Phoenix protect trees?
Yes. Phoenix protects native desert trees through its Native Plant Ordinance. Species like Palo Verde, Ironwood, and Saguaro require permits before removal on development sites.
Can I remove a tree on my residential property in Phoenix?
Non-native trees on single-family lots can generally be removed without a permit. However, protected native species like Saguaro, Palo Verde, and Ironwood require a native plant destruction permit even on residential property.
Surprise FAQ
No FAQs available.
Compare other topics
See how Phoenix and Surprise compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool