Arizona Native Plant Law Protects Specific Species

ARS Title 3, Chapter 7 (sections 3-901 through 3-918) classifies protected native plants into Highly Safeguarded, Salvage Restricted, Salvage Assessed, and Harvest Restricted categories. The Arizona Department of Agriculture issues permits and tags for moving or destroying species like saguaro, ocotillo, ironwood, and barrel cactus. Landowners must provide 20 to 60 days notice before clearing land containing protected plants. The statute applies on private property statewide and overrides any local rule that would weaken native species protection.

Class 2 misdemeanor for unlawful destruction of protected native plants. Civil penalties up to $1,000 per plant for highly safeguarded species, plus restoration costs.