How Hackensack Handles Landscaping Rules: A Practical Guide
Hackensack maintains 59 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 Hackensack falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.
Grass Height Limits
Hackensack requires property owners to keep grass and weeds cut so vegetation does not exceed ten inches in height. The property maintenance chapter applies to all residential and commercial lots within city limits.
Key details: Max grass height: Approximately 10 inches. Notice period: Typically 10 days. Enforcement: Code Enforcement Division. Cost recovery: Lien against property.
Failure to comply may result in fines, city-performed abatement billed to the owner, and a municipal lien recorded against the property.
Rainwater Harvesting
Hackensack does not prohibit residential rainwater harvesting. Rain barrels and small cisterns are encouraged for landscape irrigation under New Jersey water conservation policy and stormwater management goals.
Key details: Rain barrels: Allowed without permit. Plumbed cisterns: Building permit required. Use: Non-potable irrigation. Backflow: Required for cross-connections.
Improperly plumbed systems that cross-connect with potable water can be cited under the Uniform Construction Code with stop-work and abatement orders.
Hackensack is more permissive than most cities when it comes to rainwater harvesting. That said, there are still limits.
Weed Ordinances
Hackensack prohibits the growth of noxious weeds, brush, and uncontrolled vegetation on private property. The city may cut and remove weeds at the owner's expense if the owner fails to comply with notices.
Key details: Prohibited: Noxious weeds and brush. Compliance window: Typically 10 days. Cost recovery: Added to tax bill. Enforcement season: Spring to fall.
Notices of violation, daily fines, city-performed abatement billed to the owner, and tax liens may be imposed for ongoing weed nuisances.
Water Restrictions
Hackensack residents receive water from Suez/Veolia North America via the Hackensack Water Company system. Outdoor watering is subject to state drought restrictions and utility-imposed odd or even day schedules during dry periods.
Key details: Water provider: Veolia (formerly Suez). Reservoir: Oradell Reservoir. State authority: NJ DEP drought orders. Best watering times: Before 10am, after 6pm.
Violations of state drought orders are punishable under New Jersey law and can result in fines per occurrence. Utility-level penalties may also apply.
The Bottom Line
Hackensack'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 Hackensack is broadly strict or permissive.
All of the above reflects Hackensack's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.