Flagstaff Tree Removal Permit & Ordinance Guide
Coconino County, Arizona
Protected Tree Definition
Flagstaff Zoning Code Division 10-50.60 (Resource Protection Standards) requires Forest Resource Inventory and preservation for development in ponderosa pine forest. Tree preservation standards apply to all qualifying sites; replacement required for removed qualifying trees. This is a distinct sub-regime from Sonoran-desert Arizona cities: the protected canopy is ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) at 4-6 inch DBH and larger rather than native desert species.
Protected Species
Heritage / Landmark Trees
Resource Protection Standards assign preservation priority to larger-diameter ponderosa pine and specimen trees identified during Forest Resource Inventory. No separate DBH-based heritage-tree designation; the inventory framework substitutes.
Permit Requirements
Forest Resource Inventory required at development application for sites with qualifying trees. Preservation plan must identify trees to be preserved and replacement strategy for removed trees.
Who can apply: Property owner or authorized agent; Forest Resource Inventory prepared by ISA Certified Arborist, Registered Consulting Arborist, or qualified forester
Required Report Sections
Forest Resource Inventory with species, DBH, location, condition; preservation plan; replacement plan with caliper mitigation
Replacement Requirements
Caliper-inch mitigation per Division 10-50.60 for removed qualifying trees; preservation percentages by zone
On-site replacement preferred with ponderosa pine or approved native; off-site replacement or in-lieu contribution permitted under some conditions.
Fees & Fines
Processing Time
6-10 weeks for Forest Resource review as part of development submittal
Required Certifications
ISA Certified Arborist, ASCA Registered Consulting Arborist, or qualified forester for Forest Resource Inventory
Municipal Code
Flagstaff Zoning Code Division 10-50.60 (Resource Protection Standards)
View full ordinanceContact
Community Development Department
(928) 213-2631
Other Arizona cities
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Data last verified: April 2026. This information is provided as a reference. Always verify requirements directly with Flagstaff before submitting permits or reports.
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