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Yuma, AZ Tree Protection: Heritage & Protected Trees (2026)

Few Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Heritage Program
None
State Protection
AZDA protects certain native cacti
Common Trees
Mesquite, palo verde, ironwood, citrus, date palms
River Trees
Cottonwood and willow along Colorado River

Summary

Yuma does not have a heritage tree program or ordinance. Arizona state law protects certain native cacti statewide. Yuma's primary large native trees are mesquite, palo verde, and cottonwood along the Colorado River.

(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 the date of destruction disclosed in the notice given the department in paragraph 3 of this subsection.

Source: AZDA - Native Plant LawView official code

Full Breakdown

Yuma has no formal heritage tree program. Arizona's native plant law (AZDA) protects certain cacti statewide. Yuma's primary native trees include mesquite, palo verde, and desert ironwood. Cottonwood and willow trees are found along the Colorado River corridor. Non-native trees (citrus, date palms, eucalyptus) are common in irrigated urban areas but not protected by ordinance.

Violations & Fines

Removal of state-protected native plants violates state law.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Yuma have a heritage tree program?
No. Yuma has no heritage tree ordinance. Arizona state law protects certain native cacti but not urban trees generally.
Are cottonwood trees along the Colorado River protected?
Not by city ordinance, but federal wetland regulations may apply to vegetation in the river corridor.
What native trees grow in Yuma?
Mesquite, palo verde, and desert ironwood are the main natives. Cottonwood and willow are found along the Colorado River.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Yuma

All Yuma rules

Compare Yuma to another location·View the Arizona tree protection overview

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