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

A 5-step walkthrough drawn from Tempe'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

    Tempe Zoning and Development Code (ZDC) Part 4 Chapter 8 (Landscape Standards) governs landscape, tree preservation, and replacement during development review. Significant trees identified during site plan review may require preservation or mitigation. No universal DBH-based private tree removal permit outside development. Heritage / landmark designation: Significant trees identified at site plan review by staff arborist or landscape architect receive preservation or enhanced mitigation requirements. No formal heritage-tree designation.

  2. 2

    Determine who must apply

    Eligible applicants in Tempe: 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, caliper, preservation areas, replacement schedule; significant tree inventory when applicable. Required certifications: Arizona-registered landscape architect; ISA Certified Arborist for significant tree assessments.

  4. 4

    Submit to the permitting department

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

    View the full Tempe ordinance

  5. 5

    Plan for replacement obligations

    Replacement ratio: Caliper-inch replacement or mitigation for significant tree removal during development (site-specific). On-site replacement with comparable caliper; payment to city landscape or streetscape fund where applicable.

Where to file

Community Development Department

(480) 350-4311

Other Arizona permit walkthroughs

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

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

Compare with nearby cities

Need an arborist report for your Tempe permit?

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

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