IMPORTANT INFORMATION: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic native plant (NP) applications must be submitted 48-72 hours in advance of tag and permit pickup, in addition if these guidelines are not followed, the application will be received but will not be processed for 48-72 hours.

Protected Arizona Native Plants

Nowhere in the United States are there more rare and unusual native plants than in Arizona. Most of them are many years old and cannot be replaced. Many people desire to use these "wonders of nature" in their landscaping. However, most of these plants are protected by law. Also, all land in the State of Arizona belongs to someone, whether it be a government agency or a private citizen. Plants cannot be removed from any lands without permission of the owner and a permit from the Department of Agriculture. Lessees of State or federal land must obtain specific authorization from the landlord agency to remove protected native plants.



Landowners' Rights

Landowners have the right to destroy or remove plants growing on their land, but 20 to 60 days prior to the destruction of any protected native plants, landowners are required to notify the Department. The landowner also has the right to sell or give away any plant growing on the land. However, protected native plants may not be legally possessed, taken or transported from the growing site without a permit from the Arizona Department of Agriculture.

Individually owned residential property of 10 acres or less where initial construction has already occurred is exempt from notification before destruction. (See A.R.S. 3-904 H.)

Native Plant Laws and Rules | View the native plant rules (on pages 41 - 51, starting with the section titled, "Appendix A. Protected Native Plants by Category" is the listing of protected native plants.) View the law by going to Chapter 7.

Bringing in Plants from Outside Arizona

Any person moving protected native plants obtained outside of Arizona for planting in the state, shall declare the protected native plants at the nearest permitting office during normal business hours. The permitting office will issue a Movement Permit and appropriate seals that must be attached to the plants.

Native Plant Removal Procedures

The procedures for obtaining a permit for the removal and transportation of protected native plants include: