Phoenix requires permits for removing protected native trees and trees over 6 inches in diameter, per City Code Chapter 34 and the Tree and Shade Ordinance. Street trees on public property or rights-of-way always require city approval. Arizona also requires 20-60 day notification to the Department of Agriculture before destroying protected native plants.
Phoenix tree protection ordinance requires a permit to remove trees exceeding a specified trunk diameter, typically 6 to 12 inches measured at 4.5 feet above grade (DBH). Applications require an arborist assessment for larger trees. Street trees and right-of-way trees are managed by Phoenix public works and cannot be removed by residents. Dead, diseased, or hazardous trees may qualify for expedited permits. Unauthorized removal of protected trees results in significant fines and replacement requirements.
Unauthorized removal: $500 to $10,000 per tree depending on size and species. Replacement planting required at 2:1 or 3:1 ratio.
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix follows the 2018 Phoenix Building Construction Code Chapter 9 (IBC/IRC) and Ordinance G-5898 (effective April 18, 2014). Smoke alarms are required in...
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix has no city ordinance restricting lawn ornaments, statuary, or year-round decorations on residential property. PCC Section 23 requires property maint...
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix has no city ordinance regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. Size, lighting hours, and blower noise are governed by HOA CC&Rs. PCC Secti...
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix has no municipal ordinance regulating residential holiday lights. Lighting timing, brightness, and animation are governed by subdivision CC&Rs and HO...
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix requires building permits for outdoor kitchens with gas lines, plumbing, electrical wiring, or structural roofs. Trade permits filed through Planning...
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix has no specific ordinance regulating residential smokers or pellet grills. ADEQ Rule R18-2-219 prohibits visible emissions exceeding 20 percent opaci...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Maricopa County.
See how other cities in Maricopa County handle tree removal permits.
See how Phoenix's tree removal permits rules stack up against other locations.
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