Arizona Statewide Rule

Arizona Protected Tree Removal Rules Statewide

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Arizona (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: A.R.S. 3-901 et seq.
Notice Window: 20-60 days
Permit Issuer: AZ Dept of Agriculture
Category: Salvage Restricted

Last verified: August 21, 2026Source: Arizona State Legislature

Summary

Arizona protects native trees such as ironwood, mesquite, and palo verde under the Native Plant Law, requiring state permits and notice before removal even on private residential property.

A. Except as provided in this chapter a person shall not take, transport or possess any protected native plant taken from the original growing site in this state without possessing a valid permit issued by the division. The division shall issue permits in either a name or business name. A permit to take, transport or possess native plants is nontransferable, except that a permittee, by subcontract or otherwise, may allow its agents to work under the permit if the permittee remains primarily responsible for the actions of persons acting under his expressed or implied authority.

Source: Arizona State LegislatureView official code

Full Breakdown

Under ARS 3-901 et seq., protected native trees including ironwood (Olneya tesota), velvet mesquite, foothills palo verde, and Arizona walnut fall under Salvage Restricted or Harvest Restricted categories. Property owners or contractors must notify the Arizona Department of Agriculture 20 to 60 days before clearing, and obtain permits and tags for any plants moved off-site. State law applies regardless of municipal tree codes. Cities may add stricter heritage-tree rules but cannot exempt removals from the state framework.

Violations & Penalties

Unlawful removal of protected native trees is a class 3 misdemeanor under A.R.S. 3-932, escalating to a felony based on the value of plants taken, plus possible restoration requirements imposed by the Department of Agriculture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to cut down a mesquite tree on my property?

If the mesquite is a native protected species and you are clearing land, yes. Notification and a Department of Agriculture permit are required even on private property.

Are non-native trees regulated by Arizona state law?

No. Ornamental and non-native trees fall outside the Native Plant Law. Removal is governed only by city codes, HOA rules, and any easement or wash protections.

Sources

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