Tempe's Zoning and Development Code requires tree replacement when significant trees are removed during development. The city values shade trees for urban heat island mitigation. Replacement trees should be desert-adapted species from the approved plant list. The city's urban forestry program works to increase canopy cover across Tempe.
Tempe requires tree replacement as part of its landscape standards in the Zoning and Development Code. When significant trees are removed during development or redevelopment, replacement planting is typically required. The replacement may be at a ratio greater than 1:1 for large or mature trees. Replacement trees should be desert-adapted species from the city's approved plant list, with emphasis on shade-producing canopy trees for urban heat island mitigation. Common recommended species include mesquite, palo verde, desert willow, and other native or adapted shade trees. The city's tree replacement standards are evaluated during the landscape plan review process. City street trees damaged by adjacent property owners must be replaced with approved species at the owner's expense. Tempe's urban forestry program actively works to increase canopy cover, particularly in heat-vulnerable areas and along pedestrian corridors. The city may require tree protection fencing during construction to preserve existing trees that are being retained.
Failure to replace trees as required in development conditions may hold up project completion or certificate of occupancy.
Tempe, AZ
Tempe regulates industrial noise through Chapter 20 (Noise) of the City Code and the Zoning and Development Code. Industrial uses must not generate noise exc...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe addresses barking dogs under both the noise ordinance (Chapter 20) and animal control regulations. Dogs that bark persistently and disturb neighbors ca...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe requires vehicles to park on approved hard surfaces such as concrete or asphalt driveways. Parking on dirt, gravel, or landscaped areas is prohibited. ...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe generally does not require a building permit for standard residential fences up to 6 feet in height. Fences exceeding 6 feet, masonry walls, and fences...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe's Zoning and Development Code regulates fence materials in residential zones. Common permitted materials include block, stucco, wrought iron, wood, vin...
Tempe, AZ
Tempe's zoning code limits residential fence heights to 6 feet in side and rear yards and 3 feet in front yards. Corner lots may have additional visibility t...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Maricopa County.
See how other cities in Maricopa County handle tree replacement requirements.
See how Tempe's tree replacement requirements rules stack up against other locations.
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