Tempe, AZ Tree Protection: Parkway Planting (2026)

Tempe City Code Section 29-39, part of Chapter 29's Article III on trees and landscaping in public rights-of-way and parks, requires all planting, landscaping, and maintenance work performed in a right-of-way or public park to follow the City's standard specifications for planting and landscaping, which the City Council adopts by resolution. 2 of the Second Management Plan for 1990-2000. Section 29-38 puts the Transportation and Sustainability Director, alongside Public Works, in charge of enforcing all plantings in the right-of-way and parks. Before anyone plants, moves, removes, or replaces a tree or shrub in the right-of-way, Section 29-41 requires permission from the Public Works Director, though low-growing grass and shrubs under two feet do not need a permit as long as they are not allowed to overhang a sidewalk, alley, or walkway.

Licensed landscape contractors and utility companies can get a continuing permit under Section 29-42 that covers ongoing work without a separate approval for each job, but they still must notify the Public Works Director orally before each job and follow the same standard specifications. Section 29-44 then places responsibility for irrigating and maintaining right-of-way trees on the abutting property owner unless a specific agreement says otherwise.