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

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Mesa'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

    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 designation: No formal heritage-tree designation. Public trees regulated by Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities for right-of-way and park work.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Mesa: Property owner or authorized agent; landscape plans prepared by Arizona-registered landscape architect for commercial projects.

  3. 3

    Prepare your assessment report

    Your assessment report must include: Landscape plan showing species, size, spacing, preservation areas, and replacement schedule. Required certifications: Arizona-registered landscape architect for commercial landscape plans; 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.mesaaz.gov/business/development-services.

    View the full Mesa ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

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

Where to file

Development Services Department

(480) 644-4273

Other Arizona permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Mesa permit?

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

Start a TRAQ assessment