Tempe, AZ Landscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage Trees (2026)
Tree removal permit rules in Tempe, 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
- Private Non-Protected
- No city permit generally needed
- Protected Native
- AZ Dept of Agriculture permit required (ARS 3-901)
- City Street Trees
- Cannot be removed without authorization
- Neighbor's Trees
- May trim branches to property line
- Development
- Landscape plan must address existing trees
- Penalty
- Up to $100,000 for unauthorized native plant removal
Summary
Trees on private residential property in Tempe can generally be removed without a city permit unless they are protected native species under ARS 3-901. Protected species (saguaro, palo verde, ironwood) require an Arizona Department of Agriculture permit. City street trees cannot be removed by residents. New development must include tree preservation in landscape plans.
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.
Full Breakdown
Tree removal on private property in Tempe follows Arizona state law. Non-protected tree species on your property can generally be removed without a city permit. Protected native plants under ARS 3-901 (saguaro, palo verde, ironwood, barrel cacti, and others) require a permit from the Arizona Department of Agriculture before removal, even on private property. Fines for unauthorized removal of protected plants can reach $100,000. Trees in the public right-of-way (street trees, median trees) are city property and cannot be removed or significantly trimmed by adjacent property owners without authorization. Branches overhanging your property from a neighbor's tree may be trimmed to the property line. During development review, Tempe requires landscape plans that address existing significant trees: preservation, transplanting, or replacement may be required. The city's urban forestry program prioritizes canopy preservation and expansion.
Violations & Fines
Unauthorized removal of protected native plants carries state penalties up to $100,000. Removing city street trees may require replacement at the owner's cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Tempe?
Can I trim my neighbor's tree that hangs over my fence?
Can I remove a city street tree near my property?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Tempe
Compare Tempe to another location·View the Arizona landscaping rules overview
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Tree Removal & Heritage Trees in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Maricopa County handle tree removal & heritage trees.