Mesa, AZ Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)
Key Facts
- Designation
- By Mesa Urban Forestry Division
- Criteria
- Historical significance, age, species rarity
- Protection
- Removal permit required
- Mitigation
- Replacement planting typically required
- Unauthorized Removal
- Significant fines and mandatory mitigation
Summary
Mesa designates certain trees as heritage trees based on their historical significance, age, species rarity, or ecological value. Heritage trees are tagged and cataloged by the Urban Forestry Division and receive special legal protection. Removal of a heritage tree requires a permit and typically requires replacement planting. Unauthorized removal of a heritage tree can result in significant fines and mandatory mitigation.
This chapter does not prevent the destruction of protected native plants or clearing of land or cleaning or removing protected native plants by the owner of the land or the owner's agent if: 1. The land is in private ownership. 2. The protected native plants are not transported from the land or offered for sale. 3. The owner or the owner's agent notifies the department pursuant to this section of the intended destruction at least: (a) Twenty days before the plants are destroyed over an area of less than one acre. (b) Thirty days before the plants are destroyed over an area of one acre or more but less than forty acres. (c) Sixty days before the plants are destroyed over an area of forty acres or more. 4.
Full Breakdown
Mesa may designate certain trees as heritage, landmark, or specimen trees based on criteria including trunk diameter (typically 24+ inches), species rarity, historical significance, or ecological value. Heritage trees receive enhanced protection beyond standard tree ordinances. Removal requires special council or commission approval and is rarely granted except for safety. Construction projects must protect heritage trees with root zone barriers. Damage during construction triggers fines and remediation. Residents can nominate trees for heritage status.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a tree on my property is a heritage tree?
What happens if I remove a heritage tree without permission?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Mesa
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Heritage & Protected Trees in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Maricopa County handle heritage & protected trees.