Queen Creek, AZ Landscaping Rules: Tree Trimming (2026)

Routine pruning of healthy trees on private residential property does not require a Town permit in Queen Creek. However, the Town Code's nuisance provisions (Chapter 10, Section 10-3-2) impose clearance standards where trees encroach on public ways. Trees overhanging a sidewalk must be 'trimmed a minimum of eight (8) feet above the sidewalk,' and trees overhanging a street must be 'trimmed a minimum of 14 feet above street grade.' The same section lists dead, damaged, or uncontrolled landscaping as a public nuisance, including 'any dead trees, bushes, shrubs or portions thereof,' and palm-specific standards: a palm or similar tree is a nuisance if it has 'dead or dry fronds descending downward from the base of the lowest living frond more than eight (8) feet,' or 'dry fronds longer than five (5) feet and closer than eight (8) feet to the ground.' Properties must also be kept free of trees and grass that 'present a visual blight.' In short, the Town does not micromanage ornamental pruning, but it does require owners to keep canopies clear over sidewalks and streets, remove dead wood and stumps, and skirt palms. If a tree is in the public right-of-way, coordinate with the Town before trimming.