Phoenix, AZ Invasive Plant Rules: Prohibited Species (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing chapter
- Zoning Ord. Ch. 13, WU Code
- Banned species
- Arundo donax, Pennisetum setaceum, Rhus lancea
- Applies in
- T3–T6 transect districts only
- Existing invasive plants
- Removal directed, not mandatory
Summary
Phoenix's Walkable Urban Code prohibits planting giant reed grass, fountaingrass, and African sumac in Chapter 13 transect districts, and directs removal of existing noxious or invasive plants under Zoning Ordinance Section 1309.
E. Prohibited Plants. 1. The following plants are prohibited: ... b. Noxious or invasive plants species as identified on the University of Arizona Nonnative Invasive Plants of Arizona list and Table 1309.3. [Table 1309.3: Arundo donax (L.) — Giant cane, giant reed grass, elephant grass; Pennisetum setaceum (Forsk. Chiov) — Fountaingrass; Rhus lancea (L.) — African sumac.]
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance G-7524, passed June 17, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Section 1309.E of the Zoning Ordinance's Walkable Urban Code (Chapter 13, covering T3–T6 transect districts near light rail and transit corridors) prohibits planting any species on the University of Arizona Nonnative Invasive Plants of Arizona list and Table 1309.3. Arundo donax (giant cane/reed), Pennisetum setaceum (fountaingrass), and Rhus lancea (African sumac). Section 1309.D separately calls for existing noxious or invasive plants to be removed. This is an overlay-code rule; it applies only within WU Code transect districts, not citywide conventional zoning.
Violations & Fines
Planning and Development Department reviews landscape plans for WU Code projects at site plan/permit review; prohibited species must be substituted before approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this ban apply outside the Walkable Urban Code area?
What happens to existing invasive plants already on a WU Code site?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Phoenix
Compare Phoenix to another location·View the Arizona invasive plant rules overview
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Prohibited Species in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Maricopa County handle prohibited species.