Tree Replacement Requirements: Scottsdale vs Surprise
How do tree replacement requirements rules compare between Scottsdale, AZ and Surprise, AZ?
Surprise has fewer restrictions than Scottsdale.
Scottsdale, AZ
Maricopa County
Scottsdale's Native Plant Ordinance (Chapter 46, Article V) requires replacement or relocation of protected native plants that cannot be preserved in place during development. Replacement must be with plants from the Indigenous Plant List. The Zoning Ordinance Article X sets landscaping requirements including tree planting standards for new development.
View full Scottsdale 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 | Scottsdale | Surprise |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Preserve in place; relocate as second option; replace as last resort | - |
| Replacement Plants | Must be from Scottsdale Indigenous Plant List | - |
| Violation Fine | Up to $10,000 per protected plant | - |
| New Development | Article X requires trees in landscape areas | - |
| Minimum Caliper | Typically 2 inches at installation | - |
| ESLO Review | More stringent; preservation strongly preferred | - |
| 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.
Scottsdale FAQ
If I must remove a protected tree, do I have to replace it?
Yes. Scottsdale requires salvage and relocation first. If not feasible, replacement with plants from the Indigenous Plant List is required. The replacement details are set through the Native Plant Program review.
What size replacement trees does Scottsdale require?
Replacement trees for new development landscaping must typically be at least 2-inch caliper at installation. Protected native plant replacement specifications are set through individual project review.
What happens if I don't replace removed native plants?
Fines up to $10,000 per plant may be assessed, and final inspections or certificates of occupancy may be withheld until replacement planting is completed.
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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