Tucson has strong native plant protection through the Arizona Native Plant Law (ARS 3-904) and the city's Native Plant Preservation Ordinance. Removal of protected native trees and plants on development sites requires a permit from PDSD. The city also regulates tree removal on public property and within the Environmental Resource Zone. Saguaro cacti, ironwood, palo verde, and mesquite trees receive significant protection.
The Native Plant Preservation Ordinance requires a survey of native plants on development sites before any clearing. Protected species must be salvaged and transplanted when feasible. Removal permits require documentation of which plants will be affected and mitigation plans. Trees in the public right-of-way are managed by the Urban Forestry Division. Private property owners generally can remove non-protected trees without a permit, but protected species require authorization.
Unauthorized removal of protected native plants can result in fines up to $500 per plant plus replacement costs. State law violations (ARS 3-904) carry separate penalties. Contractors can lose their business license for repeat violations.
Tucson, AZ
Tucson has no city ordinance restricting lawn ornaments, statuary, or year-round decorations on residential property. Tucson Code Chapter 16 (Neighborhood Pr...
Tucson, AZ
Tucson has no city ordinance regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. Size, height, lighting hours, and blower noise are governed by HOA CC&Rs. Tu...
Tucson, AZ
Tucson has no municipal ordinance regulating residential holiday lights. Timing, brightness, and animated displays are governed by HOA CC&Rs in master-planne...
Tucson, AZ
Tucson requires building permits for outdoor kitchens with gas lines, plumbing, electrical wiring, or structural roofs through the Planning and Development S...
Tucson, AZ
Tucson has no specific city ordinance regulating residential smokers or pellet grills. Smoke nuisance may be addressed under Tucson Code Section 16-31 (exces...
Tucson, AZ
Tucson Fire Department enforces the International Fire Code with local amendments. Per Tucson's BBQ and Open Flame Devices handout, 20-lb propane cylinders m...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Pima County.
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