By Joseph Callaway, Those Callaways

Saguaros are only found in the Sonoran Desert. They can live to be 150-200 years old, and they are the largest type of cactus in the United States. They are a beautiful native plant, and each one is unique in its size, shape and color.

Fun Fact: Saguaros can grow 40 to 60 feet tall!

There are some things you should know if you have a saguaro in your yard and are thinking about moving its location or removing it.

1. You must obtain a permit from the Department of Agriculture if you wish to relocate a saguaro.

2. In order to obtain a permit, you must give a minimum of 20, 30, or 60 days’ notice (depending on the acres of land you own) to the Department of Agriculture – Environmental Services Division.

3. Saguaros are a native plant protected by law. The Native Plant Protection Act protects saguaros and it is illegal to remove them unless permission is granted.

4. Permission by the owner and a permit from the Department of Agriculture must be obtained in order to remove saguaros from any land.

5. You may not destroy a saguaro until you have written confirmation from the Department of Agriculture – Environmental Services Division.

** Sourced from the Arizona Department of Agriculture. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed and is subject to changes. Please check with the Arizona Department of Agriculture for additional information.