Peoria, AZ Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)
Key Facts
- State Law
- ARS 3-901
- Protected Species
- Saguaro, palo verde, ironwood
- Development
- Tree preservation in landscape plans
- Street Trees
- City managed
- Heat
- Shade valued for cooling
- Penalty
- Up to $100,000 for unauthorized removal
Summary
Arizona's Protected Native Plant Law (ARS 3-901) protects native trees statewide. Peoria requires tree preservation in development landscape plans. Native species (saguaro, palo verde, ironwood) need state permits for removal. Shade trees valued for urban heat mitigation.
A. 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. The protected plants are destroyed within one year of th
Full Breakdown
Peoria protects significant trees through zoning landscape standards and ARS 3-901. Development review requires evaluation of existing trees with preservation, transplanting, or replacement provisions. Protected native plants cannot be removed without Arizona Department of Agriculture permits. Shade trees are increasingly valued for urban heat island reduction. City street trees are managed by Public Works.
Violations & Fines
Unauthorized native plant removal: up to $100,000. City tree removal requires authorization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there protected trees in Peoria?
Can I remove a tree from my property?
Does Peoria protect shade trees?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Peoria
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