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Maricopa County, AZ Tree Protection: Parkway Planting (2026)

Some Restrictions

Verified 2 weeks ago|Source: Maricopa County Code →

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Key Facts

County permit: MCDOT required
Vision triangle: 25 feet
Sidewalk clearance: 7 feet vertical
Phoenix plan: Tree and Shade

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Maricopa County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

Summary

Maricopa County Code Title VII regulates planting in road rights-of-way. Cities like Phoenix and Scottsdale set their own parkway and median tree standards. Approved species lists, clear-vision triangles, and irrigation rules apply to all street-tree plantings.

Full Breakdown

Maricopa County Department of Transportation requires permits for any planting in unincorporated road rights-of-way under Title VII Chapter 2. Approved species must tolerate desert conditions and avoid clear-vision triangles 25 feet from intersections. Phoenix's Tree and Shade Master Plan governs city parkway plantings with required species like desert willow, mesquite, and palo verde under City Code Chapter 32B. Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Gilbert, and Chandler each maintain approved street-tree lists. Property owners typically maintain parkway trees fronting their lots, including watering and pruning. Median trees are city-maintained. Removal of mature street trees requires permits from the city forester. ADA sidewalk clearances mandate 7-foot vertical clearance under federal accessibility rules.

Violations & Fines

Unpermitted parkway tree removal in Phoenix is a civil violation under City Code 32B with fines $250-$2,500 plus replacement costs. Maricopa County right-of-way violations are Class 2 misdemeanors under ARS 11-251.05 with four months jail and $750 fines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I plant a tree on the strip between my sidewalk and street?

Yes, but only with city permit and from the approved species list. Phoenix requires Tree and Shade Plan compliance. Scottsdale uses its Streetscape Design Standards. The county requires MCDOT approval in unincorporated areas.

Who is responsible for the tree in my parkway?

In most Maricopa cities, the adjacent property owner maintains parkway trees including watering and pruning. The city retains removal authority and species approval. Median trees are city-maintained except in HOA enhanced-maintenance districts.

How does Maricopa County compare?

See how Maricopa County's parkway planting rules stack up against other locations.

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Maricopa County, AZ Tree Protection: Parkway Planting (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

Related Maricopa County Ordinances

Parking Rules: Loading Zones

Parking Rules: Curb Color Rules

Fire Regulations: Smoke Detectors

Home Business: Home Occupation Permits

Short-Term Rentals: Night Caps

Rental Inspections: Lead-Hazard Inspections

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