No, chopping down a cactus in your own Oklahoma backyard is not a felony. Unlike Arizona, where damaging protected native cacti like saguaros without a permit can be a Class 4 felony (1-3.75 years prison for high-value plants), Oklahoma lacks specific protections for cacti on private property.
Oklahoma Property Rules
On your own land, you can generally remove plants, including cacti, without felony charges, as no state law classifies cacti as protected species. Malicious mischief laws (21 O.S. § 1773) apply only to damaging trees, shrubs, or vines on another person’s land—a misdemeanor with fines up to $100 and up to 30 days jail.
Exceptions and Local Variations
State-managed lands prohibit cutting vegetation without approval, but this doesn’t extend to private yards. Local ordinances in cities or HOAs might restrict landscaping changes; check zoning for nuisances or invasive species, though cacti aren’t typically regulated in Oklahoma.
Arizona Confirmation
Arizona’s Native Plant Law (A.R.S. § 3-932) strictly protects saguaros and others: felony if valued over $500, with the 25-year rumor stemming from outdated or exaggerated federal trafficking penalties. Permits are required even on private property.
