Tree removal permit rules in Phoenix, AZ — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Phoenix Municipal Code Chapter 34 and the Tree and Shade Ordinance require permits for removing trees over 6 inches in diameter. Protected species include native trees such as palo verde, mesquite, and ironwood. Arizona law requires the Department of Agriculture to be notified 20-60 days before destroying protected native plants.
Phoenix City Code Chapter 34 regulates trees and vegetation. The sale and planting of olive trees (Olea Europaea) are prohibited due to profuse allergenic pollen — exceptions for Swan Hill and Wilson olive varieties which are non-pollinating. Male mulberry trees (Morus) are similarly prohibited as noxious pollen producers. These bans are unique to Phoenix and reflect the severe allergy impacts of these species in the desert climate. Sec. 23-32 requires property owners to prevent trees, shrubs, and bushes from encroaching on traffic control devices, pedestrian passages, vehicle passages, or drainage flow in public rights-of-way. Zoning Ordinance §703 and §1309 require landscape plans for new development including maintenance schedules, irrigation rates, and pruning protocols. Installation verified through final inspection before Certificate of Occupancy.
Planting prohibited tree species: citation and removal required. Encroachment on right-of-way: notice to abate.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Maricopa County.
See how other cities in Maricopa County handle tree removal & heritage trees.
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