Phoenix protects historic and heritage trees under its Tree and Shade Ordinance and City Code Chapter 34. Protected species include native desert trees such as palo verde, mesquite, and ironwood. The city may designate additional trees as heritage trees. Unauthorized removal can result in fines of $500-$5,000 and mandatory replanting.
Phoenix 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.
Unauthorized removal of heritage tree: $2,000 to $25,000. Damage during construction: $1,000 to $10,000 plus remediation costs.
Phoenix, AZ
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Phoenix, AZ
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Phoenix, AZ
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Phoenix, AZ
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Phoenix, AZ
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Phoenix, AZ
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Maricopa County.
See how other cities in Maricopa County handle heritage & protected trees.
See how Phoenix's heritage & protected trees rules stack up against other locations.
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