Key Facts Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources

Maricopa County, AZ Invasive Plant Rules: Tree-of-Heaven Removal (2026)

Few Restrictions

Verified 2 weeks ago|Source: Maricopa County Code →

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Key Facts

State status: Regulated, not prohibited
Removal required: No
Lanternfly host: Primary
Statute: ARS 3-204

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Maricopa County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

Summary

Arizona Department of Agriculture lists Ailanthus altissima (tree-of-heaven) as a regulated noxious weed but not prohibited. Maricopa County has no specific tree-of-heaven removal mandate. Removal is recommended due to invasive spread and spotted lanternfly host risk.

Full Breakdown

Arizona Department of Agriculture's noxious weed list under ARS 3-201 and ARS 3-204 does not currently include tree-of-heaven on the prohibited list, though it appears on the regulated watch list. Cal-IPC (California Invasive Plant Council) and AZ-WIPWG (Arizona Wildland Invasive Plant Working Group) classify it as a Class B invader spreading along washes and disturbed sites. Maricopa County does not require removal on private property. The tree is the primary host for spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula), an invasive pest not yet established in Arizona but a major eastern US concern. Cities like Phoenix encourage removal in Rio Salado and South Mountain restoration. Federal lands managed by USFS and BLM treat it actively. Mature trees regenerate aggressively from roots.

Violations & Fines

No state or county penalty applies to growing tree-of-heaven on private property in 2026. Selling or moving live plants violates ARS 3-204 commerce restrictions on regulated species, with civil fines up to $1,000. HOA covenants may require removal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to remove a tree-of-heaven on my property?

Not legally required in Arizona. The tree is regulated but not prohibited. Most experts and county extension agents recommend removal due to invasive spread and the risk of hosting spotted lanternfly.

How do I kill a tree-of-heaven?

Cutting alone fails because the tree resprouts aggressively. Use the hack-and-squirt method with triclopyr or glyphosate herbicide, or basal bark treatment, in late summer for best results. Contact AZ Extension for guidance.

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Maricopa County, AZ Invasive Plant Rules: Tree-of-Heaven Removal (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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Short-Term Rentals: Night Caps

Rental Inspections: Lead-Hazard Inspections

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