Tree removal permit rules in Tucson, AZ — sometimes called heritage tree, protected tree, or street tree ordinances — list which trees require a permit before you can cut them down.
Tucson's Native Plant Preservation Ordinance protects saguaros, ironwood, palo verde, and mesquite on development sites. Saguaro removal requires both state (ARS §3-904) and city permits. Unauthorized saguaro removal is a Class 4 felony.
Tucson enforces its Native Plant Preservation Ordinance on development sites requiring salvage and replanting of protected native plants. Saguaro removal or transplanting requires a state permit under ARS §3-904 (Arizona's Native Plant Law) plus Tucson Planning approval. Protected species include saguaro, ironwood, palo verde, and mesquite. Heritage tree removal may require replacement planting at ratios up to 3:1. Urban tree canopy program plants shade trees for heat island mitigation.
Unauthorized saguaro removal: Class 4 felony under ARS §3-904. Native plant ordinance violations: $500–$10,000 per plant. Replacement planting ordered.
Tucson, AZ
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Tucson, AZ
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Tucson, AZ
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Tucson, AZ
Tucson requires building permits for outdoor kitchens with gas lines, plumbing, electrical wiring, or structural roofs through the Planning and Development S...
Tucson, AZ
Tucson has no specific city ordinance regulating residential smokers or pellet grills. Smoke nuisance may be addressed under Tucson Code Section 16-31 (exces...
Tucson, AZ
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Pima County.
See how other cities in Pima County handle tree removal & heritage trees.
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