Oro Valley, AZ Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)

The Oro Valley Zoning Code requires landscaping in new development and major renovations to use predominantly native and drought-tolerant species from the Town-approved plant list. The approved list emphasizes Sonoran Desert natives including saguaro, barrel cactus, prickly pear, palo verde, mesquite, ironwood, desert willow, and various agave species. The Town requires a minimum percentage of native plants in commercial and multifamily development landscaping plans, typically 50 percent or more of the plant palette. Single-family residential development in the Catalina Foothills and Tortolita Mountain areas must preserve significant native vegetation stands as part of the hillside development standards. ARS 3-904 classifies certain species as highly safeguarded (saguaro, barrel cactus over a certain size), safeguarded (ironwood, palo verde), or harvest-restricted, with corresponding protections against removal without state permits. The Town Zoning Code prohibits the use of high-water-use non-native species in new development front yards and common areas. Existing homeowners are encouraged but not required to transition to native landscaping, though the Oro Valley Water Utility provides rebates and incentives for doing so.