How to apply for a tree removal permit in Buckeye, Arizona

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Buckeye's tree-protection ordinance. For the underlying DBH thresholds, protected-species list, and full fee schedule, see the city ordinance page.

Expected processing time: 3-6 weeks for landscape plan review. Plan removal timing accordingly — emergency-tree provisions may differ.

  1. 1

    Determine if your tree is regulated

    Buckeye Zoning Ordinance landscape standards govern landscape and tree plantings during development review. Regulation is landscape-plan-based rather than a DBH-based private tree removal permit. Arizona Native Plant Law applies to undeveloped private land. Heritage / landmark designation: No formal heritage-tree designation. Public trees regulated by Parks and Recreation.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Buckeye: Property owner or authorized agent; landscape plans by Arizona-registered landscape architect.

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Your assessment report must include: Landscape plan with species, spacing, preservation areas, replacement schedule. Required certifications: Arizona-registered landscape architect; ISA Certified Arborist recommended.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

    Submit your application and assessment report to Development Services Department. Typical processing time: 3-6 weeks for landscape plan review. Reference the full ordinance at https://www.buckeyeaz.gov/government/departments/development-services.

    View the full Buckeye ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: Landscape-code replacement per Buckeye landscape standards (site-specific). On-site replacement to meet landscape coverage and shade standards.

Where to file

Development Services Department

(623) 349-6000

Other Arizona permit walkthroughs

See Arizona replacement obligations compared — how Buckeye's replacement ratio ranks against the rest of the state.

See Arizona heritage criteria compared — how Buckeye's designation rules stack against the rest of the state.

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Buckeye permit?

Capture an ISA TRAQ Level 1, 2, or 3 assessment in the field and export a municipality-ready PDF that fits Buckeye's required report sections. Free, no account required.

Start a TRAQ assessment