Mesa Tree Removal Permit & Ordinance Guide
Maricopa County, Arizona
Protected Tree Definition
Mesa Zoning Ordinance Title 11 Chapter 30 (Design Standards) and Chapter 11-31 (Landscape) govern landscape, tree preservation, and replacement standards during development review. No dedicated private tree removal permit ordinance for existing residential parcels; regulation is landscape-plan-based at development submittal.
Heritage / Landmark Trees
No formal heritage-tree designation. Public trees regulated by Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities for right-of-way and park work.
Permit Requirements
Landscape plan review during development approval. Street or park tree work requires Parks and Recreation coordination. Arizona Native Plant Law applies to undeveloped private land.
Who can apply: Property owner or authorized agent; landscape plans prepared by Arizona-registered landscape architect for commercial projects
Required Report Sections
Landscape plan showing species, size, spacing, preservation areas, and replacement schedule
Replacement Requirements
Landscape-code replacement per Mesa landscape standards (site-specific by zone)
On-site replacement required to meet landscape coverage and shade standards.
Fees & Fines
Processing Time
3-6 weeks for landscape plan review
Required Certifications
Arizona-registered landscape architect for commercial landscape plans; ISA Certified Arborist recommended
Municipal Code
Mesa Zoning Ordinance Title 11 Chapter 30 (Design Standards) and Chapter 11-31 (Landscape)
View full ordinanceContact
Development Services Department
(480) 644-4273
Nearby Cities in Maricopa County
Other Arizona cities
Compare with nearby cities
Data last verified: April 2026. This information is provided as a reference. Always verify requirements directly with Mesa before submitting permits or reports.
Ready to apply? How to apply for a permit in Mesa →
See Arizona replacement obligations compared: How Mesa's replacement ratio ranks in Arizona →
See Arizona heritage criteria compared: How Mesa's heritage designation ranks in Arizona →
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