Oro Valley, AZ Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Property owners in Oro Valley must trim trees and vegetation that overhang public rights-of-way to maintain safe clearance for pedestrians and vehicles. The minimum clearance is 8 feet above sidewalks and 14 feet above street surfaces. Trees at intersections must be maintained to preserve sight-visibility triangles per the Town Engineering Standards. Native desert trees including palo verde, mesquite, and ironwood are prevalent throughout Oro Valley and may be trimmed for clearance and safety but are subject to the native plant protections in the Zoning Code. The Town discourages topping of native trees as it damages their structural integrity and desert-adapted form. Property owners are responsible for trees on their lot even if branches extend over public property. The Town may issue notices requiring trimming within a specified period, and if the owner fails to comply, the Town can perform the work and bill the property owner. Seasonal trimming before monsoon season (June-September) is recommended to prevent wind-damaged limbs from causing property damage during microbursts and haboobs common in the Tucson metro area.