Bloomington's Landscaping Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles landscaping rules a little differently. In Bloomington, Minnesota, 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.

Weed Ordinances

Bloomington enforces weed abatement under local and state law. MN Stat. §18.75 (Noxious Weed Law) enforced by county agricultural inspectors.

Key details: State Law: MN Stat. §18.75. Enforcement: City + county inspectors. Cost: Owner pays abatement. Native Gardens: May need registration.

Notice to abate. City clears at owner’s expense ($200 to $1,000+). Noxious weed violations: county enforcement.

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Boulevard trees are managed jointly by the city and property owners. Diseased trees (EAB, Dutch Elm, Oak Wilt) are removed under the city's Tree Disease Management program at no charge. City Code §18.04 authorizes orders to treat or remove diseased trees. §18.06 regulates tree planting. MN §561.04 imposes treble damages for unauthorized removal of others' trees.

Key details: Diseased Tree Removal: City removes at no charge. Tree Diseases: EAB, Dutch Elm, Oak Wilt. City Code: §18.04 and §18.06. Unauthorized Removal: Treble damages (MN §561.04).

Unauthorized removal: $500 to $10,000 per tree. Replacement planting required. Street tree damage: city restitution costs.

The Bottom Line

Bloomington's landscaping 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 Bloomington is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Bloomington can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.