Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Scottsdale vs Tempe
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Scottsdale, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Tempe has fewer restrictions than Scottsdale.
Scottsdale, AZ
Maricopa County
Scottsdale's Native Plant Ordinance (Chapter 46, Article V) protects indigenous desert plants citywide. Removal or relocation of protected native plants requires a Native Plant program submission. Violations carry fines up to $10,000. The ordinance covers saguaro cacti, palo verde trees, mesquite, ironwood, and dozens of other protected species.
View full Scottsdale rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Tempe does not require a permit to remove trees on private residential property in most cases. However, trees in the public right-of-way are protected and cannot be removed without city authorization. Native desert trees may have additional protections under state law.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Scottsdale | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Code | Scottsdale Code Chapter 46, Article V — Native Plant Ordinance | - |
| Adopted | 1981 (revised multiple times since) | - |
| Protected Species | Saguaro, palo verde, mesquite, ironwood, barrel cactus, etc. | - |
| Violation Fine | Up to $10,000 per plant | - |
| Scope | Applies citywide to all development and land clearing | - |
| Plant List | Scottsdale Indigenous Plant List maintained by city | - |
| Private Trees | - | No permit generally required |
| Public Trees | - | City authorization required |
| Native Plants | - | Protected under ARS 3-904 |
| Saguaro | - | Special protection under state law |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Scottsdale FAQ
Can I remove a saguaro cactus from my Scottsdale property?
Saguaros are protected under Scottsdale's Native Plant Ordinance. Removal requires a Native Plant Program submission and approval. Unauthorized removal carries fines up to $10,000.
What plants are protected in Scottsdale?
Dozens of species including saguaro, barrel cactus, palo verde, mesquite, ironwood, cholla, prickly pear, and many others listed on the city's Indigenous Plant List.
What if a protected tree is dangerous or dying on my property?
Emergency removal of hazardous trees threatening structures is permitted but should be documented with photos and reported to Planning and Development Services.
Tempe FAQ
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Tempe?
Generally not for trees on private property. Public right-of-way trees require city authorization. Certain native species like saguaros are protected by state law.
Can I remove a saguaro cactus from my property?
Saguaro cacti are protected under Arizona law. Contact the Arizona Department of Agriculture before removing or transplanting a saguaro.
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