Tree removal permit rules in Maricopa County, AZ — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Maricopa County requires protection of state-listed native plants under Arizona's Native Plant Law (ARS 3-901+). Protected species including saguaro, ironwood, palo verde, and mesquite cannot be removed without a permit from the Arizona Department of Agriculture. Non-protected tree removal on private property in unincorporated areas does not require a county permit but may be subject to HOA restrictions.
Tree removal on private property in unincorporated Maricopa County does not require a county permit for non-protected species. However, Arizona's Native Plant Law (ARS 3-901+) protects certain trees including ironwood, blue palo verde, foothill palo verde, and mesquite when growing in their native habitat. Removal of protected trees requires a permit from the Arizona Department of Agriculture regardless of property ownership. Saguaro cacti are also protected and require AZDA permits for removal or relocation. During land development, Maricopa County may require a native plant inventory and salvage plan as part of the zoning clearance process. Contact AZDA's Native Plant Program at (602) 542-4373 for protected species permits and Maricopa County Planning and Development at (602) 506-3301 for development-related tree removal questions.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Maricopa County code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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See how Maricopa County's tree removal & heritage trees rules stack up against other locations.
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