Phoenix, AZ Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)
Key Facts
- Code Section
- Phoenix Neighborhood Preservation Ordinance Section 39; Zoning Ordinance Section 1309 (Table 1309.3)
- Banned new plantings
- Pollen varieties of Olive and Mulberry trees
- Invasive list
- U of A Non-native Invasive Plants of Arizona
- Existing trees
- Grandfathered if planted pre-ordinance
Summary
Section 39 of the Phoenix Neighborhood Preservation Ordinance prohibits planting pollen varieties of Olive and Mulberry trees, and noxious or invasive species on the University of Arizona Non-native Invasive Plants of Arizona list may not be planted; Zoning Ordinance Section 1309 (Table 1309.3) lists additional prohibited plants.
Pollen varieties of Olive Trees and Mulberry Trees are prohibited by Section 39 of the city of Phoenix Neighborhood Preservation Ordinance. ... Existing Olive or Mulberry trees were likely planted prior to the ordinance that was put into effect to minimize the planting of new pollen varieties and are therefore grandfathered into the site and can remain. ... See Section 1309E.1 Table 1309.3 for additional prohibited plants. Also, noxious or invasive plants species as identified on the University of Arizona Non-native Invasive Plants of Arizona List are not to be planted.
Full Breakdown
To control allergens and protect native landscape character, the City of Phoenix prohibits the planting of new pollen varieties of Olive Trees and Mulberry Trees under Section 39 of the Neighborhood Preservation Ordinance. Existing Olive and Mulberry trees planted before the ordinance are grandfathered and may remain, and certain overlay districts actually require or encourage Olive trees and high-water-use plants to remain during new construction to preserve neighborhood character and historic tree-lined streets. In addition, noxious or invasive plant species identified on the University of Arizona Non-native Invasive Plants of Arizona list are not to be planted, and Zoning Ordinance Section 1309E.1 / Table 1309.3 lists further prohibited plants. These rules are administered by the Planning & Development Department through landscape plan review.
Violations & Fines
Enforced through landscape plan review and the Neighborhood Preservation Ordinance; prohibited species (new pollen-bearing Olive/Mulberry, listed noxious/invasive plants) will not be approved for planting, though pre-ordinance trees are grandfathered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I plant an olive or mulberry tree in Phoenix?
Why do I still see olive and mulberry trees around the city?
Are there other banned plants?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Phoenix
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Native Plants in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Maricopa County handle native plants.