How Doylestown Handles Landscaping Rules: A Practical Guide

Doylestown maintains 38 local ordinances across all categories, and 4 of those deal specifically with landscaping rules. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Doylestown falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Tree Trimming

Doylestown Borough does not require a permit for tree pruning/trimming. However, topping (cutting all limbs like a shrub) is discouraged. Shade Tree Commission provides guidance. Tree removal of protected trees requires a separate permit.

Key details: Permit: Not required for trimming. Topping: Discouraged by Borough. Shade Tree Commission: Free guidance available. Removal: Separate permit required.

Trimming: no violations unless done negligently on public trees. Unauthorized removal: separate violation (see tree-removal).

Doylestown is more permissive than most cities when it comes to tree trimming. That said, there are still limits.

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Doylestown Borough requires a $15 Tree Removal Permit for all protected trees (deciduous 6+ inches DBH, evergreen 6+ inches DBH, ornamental/specimen 5+ inches). Application reviewed by Shade Tree Commission within 35 days. Two photos required.

Key details: Permit Fee: $15. Protected Trees: Deciduous 6" DBH, evergreen 6" DBH. Ornamental: 5" diameter threshold. Review: Shade Tree Commission, 35 days.

Removal without permit: unlawful, subject to fines per Borough ordinance. May require replacement planting.

This is one of the stricter rules in Doylestown's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Grass Height Limits

Doylestown Borough Ch. 10, Part 2 limits grass and weeds to 8 inches maximum. Vegetation not edible or ornamental must not exceed 8 inches or create noxious odors. Bamboo prohibited within 40 ft of public roadway pavement edge.

Key details: Max Height: 8 inches. Bamboo Setback: 40 ft from roadway. Bamboo Spread: Must not encroach on neighbors. Code Section: Ch. 10, Part 2.

Code Enforcement citation for grass over 8 inches. Borough may abate and bill owner for costs.

Water Restrictions

Doylestown Borough receives water from the Doylestown Borough Water Department. No permanent outdoor watering restrictions found in code. During drought emergencies, PA DEP may impose mandatory water conservation. Borough stormwater rules regulate runoff, not consumption.

Key details: Permanent Limits: None found in code. Drought Authority: PA DEP / DRBC. Water Provider: Borough Water Department. Stormwater: Ch. 8 regulates runoff.

During declared droughts, violating state water conservation orders may carry fines under PA DEP enforcement.

Doylestown is more permissive than most cities when it comes to water restrictions. That said, there are still limits.

The Bottom Line

Compared to many U.S. cities, Doylestown gives residents more room on landscaping rules. 2 of the 4 rules here are rated permissive. But permissive does not mean unregulated. There are still requirements, and the city does enforce them when violations are reported.

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