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Pima County, AZ Tree Protection: Tree Removal Permits (2026)

Heavy Restrictions

Verified 1 month ago|Source: ARS 3-904 - Protected Native Plants →

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Key Facts

County Code: Chapter 18.72 (Native Plant Preservation)
State Law: ARS 3-904 (Class 4 felony)
Protected Species: Saguaro, ironwood, palo verde, mesquite
Permit Authority: AZ Dept of Agriculture (ADA)
Development

City-specific rules exist: Oro Valley, Marana, Sahuarita, and Tucson have their own tree removal permits rules that differ from Pima County's county-level regulations. If you live in one of those cities, check the city-specific page instead.

Summary

Pima County Code Ch. 18.72 requires permits for native plant removal during development. ARS 3-904 makes destroying saguaro, ironwood, or palo verde without an ADA permit a Class 4 felony.

Full Breakdown

Pima County has robust native plant protection through its Zoning Code Chapter 18.72 (Native Plant Preservation Ordinance). During any development or grading activity, a Native Plant Preservation Plan must be submitted identifying all protected plants on the site. Salvageable plants must be transplanted or donated. ARS 3-904 and the Arizona Native Plant Law make it a Class 4 felony to knowingly destroy, mutilate, or remove protected native plants (including saguaro cacti, ironwood trees, palo verde trees, and mesquite) without a permit from the Arizona Department of Agriculture. Even on private property, landowners must obtain ADA notification tags before removing protected species. The county requires a landscape plan for all new development showing retention of native vegetation. Grading permits trigger mandatory native plant surveys.

Violations & Fines

Destroying a protected native plant without ADA permit: Class 4 felony under ARS 3-904, up to 3.75 years imprisonment and substantial fines. County violations: stop-work orders, mitigation requirements, denial of future permits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to remove a saguaro cactus from my property?

Yes. Under ARS 3-904, you must obtain notification tags from the Arizona Department of Agriculture before removing, transplanting, or destroying any saguaro cactus, even on your own private property. Unauthorized destruction is a Class 4 felony.

What happens if I cut down a saguaro cactus?

Destroying a saguaro without an ADA permit is a Class 4 felony under ARS 3-904, punishable by up to 3.75 years in prison. The county may also impose stop-work orders and require mitigation plantings.

How does Pima County compare?

See how Pima County's tree removal permits rules stack up against other locations.

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Pima County, AZ Tree Protection: Tree Removal Permits (2026)

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