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Invasive Plant Rules

Fargo's Invasive Plant Rules: The Rules That Matter

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

Every city handles invasive plant rules a little differently. In Fargo, North Dakota, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Prohibited Species

Fargo prohibits letting any noxious weed, a species the North Dakota State Weed Board designates as such, grow on public or private property within city limits, alongside an 8-inch cap on grass and weeds generally.

Key details: Governing section: § 11-0805, 11-0806. Defined by: ND State Weed Board list. Grass/weed height cap: 8 inches. Penalty class: Infraction, up to $1,000. Enforcer: Fargo health department.

Violating § 11-0805/11-0806 is an infraction under § 1-0301(B): a fine up to $1,000, with each day of noncompliance a separate offense. The health department can also abate the weeds itself and assess the cost to the property under § 1-0106.

Front Yard Gardens

Fargo lets homeowners plant gardens on the street-side boulevard strip without a permit, but noxious weeds and invasive plants are barred and must be removed under Fargo Municipal Code § 13-1702.

Key details: Height limit: 36 in.; 24 in. near intersections. Permit: Not required for ground-level plantings. Invasive plants: Must be removed, never planted. Raised beds: Permit needed if over 4 inches. Enforcing agency: Fargo Cass Public Health.

Violations of Article 13-17 are grounds for code enforcement action; the Public Health Department can revoke, suspend, or refuse to renew a raised-bed permit for any violation, with appeal rights to the board of city commissioners under § 13-1703.

The Bottom Line

Fargo's invasive plant rules rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Fargo is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Fargo's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.