Tree Replacement Requirements: Phoenix vs Surprise
How do tree replacement requirements rules compare between Phoenix, AZ and Surprise, AZ?
Surprise has fewer restrictions than Phoenix.
Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Phoenix's Tree and Shade Master Plan requires replanting or replacement of removed trees in many cases. Residents may need to select appropriate replacement trees from approved species lists (AMA-3550), pay a fee, or plant multiple trees depending on the size of the removed tree. The goal is maintaining the urban tree canopy.
View full Phoenix rules →Surprise, AZ
Maricopa County
Maricopa County does not have a tree replacement ordinance for unincorporated areas. When protected native plants must be removed for development, the Arizona Department of Agriculture may require salvage and transplanting rather than replacement. Non-protected tree removal and replacement is not regulated by the county.
View full Surprise rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Phoenix | Surprise |
|---|---|---|
| Plan | Tree and Shade Master Plan | - |
| Replacement Species | From AZ Dept of Water Resources AMA-3550 list | - |
| Ratio | May require multiple replacements per removed tree | - |
| Fee Option | Payment in lieu of replanting may be available | - |
| Care Required | Proper care of replacement trees required | - |
| County Ordinance | - | No tree replacement requirement |
| Native Plants | - | Salvage may be required by AZDA |
| Non-Protected | - | No replacement required |
| Development | - | Landscaping plans may require new plantings |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Phoenix FAQ
Do I have to replace a tree I remove?
In many cases, yes. The Tree and Shade Master Plan outlines requirements for replacing removed trees. You may need to plant multiple trees, select from the AMA-3550 approved species list, or pay a fee depending on the size of the removed tree.
What species can I plant as replacements?
Replacement trees should be from the Arizona Department of Water Resources Phoenix AMA-3550 approved list or Table 1309.1 of the Zoning Ordinance. These lists favor desert-adapted, low-water-use species suitable for the Phoenix climate.
Surprise FAQ
Am I required to plant a new tree when I remove one?
No. Maricopa County does not have a general tree replacement ordinance. Replacement is only potentially required for protected native species during development projects.
What happens to protected trees during new construction?
Developers must work with the Arizona Department of Agriculture to salvage and transplant protected native species when possible before clearing a construction site.
Are there incentives for planting trees in Maricopa County?
Some local utilities and nonprofit organizations offer tree planting programs and rebates for shade trees that reduce energy use. Check with SRP or APS for current offerings.
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