Peoria, AZ Tree Protection: Parkway Planting (2026)

Chapter 7 of the Peoria City Code defines a Street Tree as any shrub, bush, or other woody vegetation whose trunk (or combined trunks) measures more than 14 inches in circumference at 4 feet 6 inches above natural grade, growing on the land between property lines on either side of a street, avenue, or right-of-way that the City maintains (Sec. 7-51). Section 7-52 sets the actual planting standard: acceptable Street Tree Species must be low water use, and any other species may be planted only with the City Arborist's written permission.

The City retains the right under Section 7-53 to plant, prune, maintain, and remove trees, plants, and shrubs within street, alley, avenue, and public-ground lines to protect public safety or preserve the symmetry of those grounds, and the Arborist may order removal of any tree that is unsafe or threatens sewers, power lines, gas lines, water lines, or other public improvements. Once a homeowner obtains written permission and plants a Street Tree abutting their property, Section 7-54 puts irrigation and maintenance on that property owner unless a separate City agreement says otherwise; City-authorized trees in medians and park areas stay with the Community Services Department.

Anyone who disagrees with an Arborist ruling has ten business days to appeal to the City Manager under Section 7-59, whose decision is final. Section 7-60 caps civil penalties at $250 per day, with each day of a continuing violation counted separately.