Tempe protects significant trees through its landscape standards in the Zoning and Development Code. Arizona's Protected Native Plant Law (ARS 3-901) protects native desert trees statewide. During development review, Tempe requires tree preservation plans for significant existing trees. Mature shade trees are increasingly valued for urban heat island mitigation.
Tempe's heritage tree protections operate through the Zoning and Development Code landscape standards and Arizona's Protected Native Plant Law. During development review, the city requires evaluation of significant existing trees and may require preservation, transplanting, or replacement. Protected native species under ARS 3-901 (palo verde, ironwood, saguaro, etc.) cannot be removed without Arizona Department of Agriculture permits. Tempe has recognized the importance of mature shade trees for combating the urban heat island effect — temperatures in the Phoenix metro area can be 10+ degrees cooler under tree canopy. City street trees are managed by the Public Works department and may not be removed or significantly trimmed by adjacent property owners without authorization. The city's urban forestry efforts focus on increasing canopy cover in heat-stressed areas. Desert-adapted shade trees (mesquite, palo verde, desert willow) are prioritized in city planting programs.
Removing protected native plants without a state permit carries fines up to $100,000. Unauthorized removal of city street trees may result in replacement costs.
Tempe, AZ
Tempe regulates industrial noise through Chapter 20 (Noise) of the City Code and the Zoning and Development Code. Industrial uses must not generate noise exc...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe addresses barking dogs under both the noise ordinance (Chapter 20) and animal control regulations. Dogs that bark persistently and disturb neighbors ca...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe requires vehicles to park on approved hard surfaces such as concrete or asphalt driveways. Parking on dirt, gravel, or landscaped areas is prohibited. ...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe generally does not require a building permit for standard residential fences up to 6 feet in height. Fences exceeding 6 feet, masonry walls, and fences...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe's Zoning and Development Code regulates fence materials in residential zones. Common permitted materials include block, stucco, wrought iron, wood, vin...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe's zoning code limits residential fence heights to 6 feet in side and rear yards and 3 feet in front yards. Corner lots may have additional visibility t...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Maricopa County.
See how other cities in Maricopa County handle heritage & protected trees.
See how Tempe's heritage & protected trees rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.