Landscaping Rules in Gresham, OR: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Gresham or are thinking about moving there, landscaping rules are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Gresham has 4 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of landscaping rules, and some of them might surprise you.

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Gresham regulates tree removal through its Development Code. Significant trees may require a permit before removal. Street trees cannot be removed without city approval.

Key details: Permit: May be required for significant trees. Street Trees: City approval required. Replacement: Required for permitted removals. Exemptions: Dead, hazardous, or diseased trees.

Unauthorized removal of significant or street trees results in fines and mandatory replacement planting.

Grass Height Limits

Gresham requires property owners to maintain vegetation. Grass and weeds exceeding 10 inches trigger code compliance action. Properties must not create a nuisance or fire hazard.

Key details: Maximum Height: 10 inches. Enforcement: Code Compliance division. Process: Notice, deadline, then citation. Abatement: City may mow and charge owner.

Violations result in notice, then citations and fines. The city may abate the nuisance and charge the property owner.

Tree Trimming

Gresham requires property owners to maintain trees so they do not obstruct sidewalks, streets, or sight lines. Street trees must have 8 feet of vertical clearance over sidewalks and 14 feet over streets.

Key details: Sidewalk Clearance: 8 feet vertical. Street Clearance: 14 feet vertical. Owner Duty: Maintain street-side trees. Program: Urban Forestry.

Failure to maintain clearance results in notices and potential fines. The city may trim trees and bill the property owner.

Water Restrictions

Gresham follows regional water conservation guidelines. During summer months, voluntary and sometimes mandatory restrictions apply. The city encourages efficient irrigation practices.

Key details: Summer Restrictions: May apply during drought. Water Source: Portland Water Bureau. Encouragement: Drought-resistant landscaping. Waste: Runoff into streets discouraged.

During mandatory restrictions, violations result in warnings and potential fines for excessive water waste.

The Bottom Line

Gresham'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 Gresham is broadly strict or permissive.

These rules come from Gresham's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.