Scottsdale, AZ Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in Scottsdale, AZ, sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances, list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Key Facts
- Governing Code
- Scottsdale Code Chapter 46, Article V. Native Plant Ordinance
- Adopted
- 1981 (revised multiple times since)
- Protected Species
- Saguaro, palo verde, mesquite, ironwood, barrel cactus, etc.
- Violation Fine
- Up to $10,000 per plant
- Scope
- Applies citywide to all development and land clearing
- Plant List
- Scottsdale Indigenous Plant List maintained by city
Summary
Scottsdale's Native Plant Ordinance (Chapter 46, Article V) protects indigenous desert plants citywide. Removal or relocation of protected native plants requires a Native Plant program submission. Violations carry fines up to $10,000. The ordinance covers saguaro cacti, palo verde trees, mesquite, ironwood, and dozens of other protected species.
A. This chapter does not prevent the destruction of protected native plants or clearing of land or cleaning or removing protected native plants by the owner of the land or the owner's agent if: 1. The land is in private ownership. 2. The protected native plants are not transported from the land or offered for sale. 3. The owner or the owner's agent notifies the department pursuant to this section of the intended destruction at least: (a) Twenty days before the plants are destroyed over an area of less than one acre. (b) Thirty days before the plants are destroyed over an area of one acre or more but less than forty acres. (c) Sixty days before the plants are destroyed over an area of forty acres or more. 4. The protected plants are destroye
Full Breakdown
Scottsdale adopted its first Native Plant Ordinance in 1981, recognizing that native vegetation enhances the city's character, supports tourism, stabilizes soil, provides wildlife habitat, and increases property values. The current ordinance (Chapter 46, Article V) applies citywide. Any development, grading, or land clearing that affects protected plants requires a Native Plant Program submitted to Planning and Development Services. Protected plants include saguaro, barrel cactus, cholla, prickly pear, palo verde, mesquite, ironwood, and many others on the city's Indigenous Plant List. Plants must be preserved in place whenever possible. If relocation is necessary, it must be done per approved salvage plans. Unauthorized removal or destruction of protected native plants carries fines up to $10,000 per violation. The ordinance applies to both commercial development and residential property improvements. Emergency removal (hazardous trees threatening structures) should be documented and reported to the city.
Violations & Fines
Unauthorized removal of protected native plants carries fines up to $10,000 per plant. Required replacement or restoration may also be ordered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove a saguaro cactus from my Scottsdale property?
What plants are protected in Scottsdale?
What if a protected tree is dangerous or dying on my property?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Scottsdale
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Tree Removal & Heritage Trees in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Maricopa County handle tree removal & heritage trees.