Landscaping Rules in Montgomery, AL: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Montgomery or are thinking about moving there, landscaping rules are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Montgomery has 5 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of landscaping rules, and some of them might surprise you.

Tree Trimming

Property owners in Montgomery are responsible for trimming trees on their property that encroach on public sidewalks, streets, or neighboring properties. Trees must maintain adequate clearance over sidewalks and roads.

Key details: Sidewalk Clearance: 8 feet minimum. Street Clearance: 14 feet minimum. Neighbor Rights: May trim branches at property line. City Trees: Public Works handles right-of-way.

Property owners who fail to maintain clearance may receive notices and fines. The city may trim hazardous limbs and bill the property owner.

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Montgomery does not have a comprehensive tree protection ordinance for private property, but trees in the public right-of-way and in historic districts may be protected. Developers must comply with landscaping requirements in the zoning code.

Key details: Private Property: Generally no permit required. Right-of-Way: City permission required. Historic Districts: HPC approval may be needed. New Development: Landscaping requirements in zoning code.

Removing trees from the public right-of-way without permission may result in fines and required replacement. Historic district violations carry additional penalties.

Grass Height Limits

Montgomery's property maintenance code requires property owners to maintain grass and vegetation at a reasonable height. Grass exceeding 12 inches is generally considered a violation.

Key details: Maximum Height: Approximately 12 inches. Code Section: Chapter 12/18 Environmental. Vacant Lots: Same standards as occupied property. City Mowing: Billed to owner if not abated.

Property owners receive a notice to abate. Failure to comply may result in city-ordered mowing at the owner's expense, plus fines and liens on the property.

Water Restrictions

Montgomery Water Works and Sanitary Sewer Board may impose watering restrictions during drought conditions. Even without restrictions, water conservation is encouraged.

Key details: Authority: Montgomery Water Works & Sanitary Sewer Board. Drought Rules: Odd/even watering schedules possible. Best Hours: Early morning or evening irrigation. State: ADEM may also impose restrictions.

Violating mandatory water restrictions may result in warnings, fines, and ultimately water service restrictions.

Weed Ordinances

Montgomery enforces weed and overgrowth ordinances under municipal code. Alabama's weed abatement law (Ala. Code §11-67-60 et seq.) lets the city declare grass and weeds over 12 inches a public nuisance and abate them at owner expense.

Key details: Enforcement: Complaint-based + proactive. Notice: 7 to 14 days to comply. State Law: Ala. Code §11-67-60 et seq.. Invasive: Kudzu, cogongrass.

Code violation: $100 to $500. City abatement billed to owner. Liens on property for unpaid abatement costs.

The Bottom Line

Montgomery'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 Montgomery is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Montgomery'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.