How New Bedford Handles Landscaping Rules: A Practical Guide

New Bedford maintains 40 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 New Bedford falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Grass Height Limits

New Bedford requires property owners to keep lawns trimmed to no more than 3 inches in height under §22-18 of the Code of Ordinances (enacted July 21, 2003). After an initial 72-hour grace period following notice, violators face a $20 fine plus $5 per additional week of non-compliance.

Key details: Max Grass Height: 3 inches. Code Section: §22-18. Grace Period: 72 hours after notice. Fine: $20 + $5 per additional week.

Initial fine: $20 after 72-hour grace period. Additional $5 per week of continued violation.

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

Water Restrictions

New Bedford's water supply is managed through the city's water utility. Outdoor water use restrictions may be imposed during drought conditions per MassDEP guidelines. Unnecessary waste of water is subject to enforcement under city regulations.

Key details: Authority: City water utility / MassDEP. Drought Restrictions: May be imposed seasonally. Waste Prevention: Required under city regulations. State Authority: MassDEP outdoor water use restrictions.

Watering restriction violations: warnings, then fines $25 to $200. Water utility may impose surcharges.

Tree Trimming

New Bedford manages public trees through the Department of Public Infrastructure. Property owners are responsible for maintaining trees on their property to prevent hazards to public ways. Massachusetts law allows property owners to trim branches extending over their property line.

Key details: Public Trees: Managed by Dept of Public Infrastructure. Private Trees: Owner responsible for hazard prevention. Overhanging Branches: May trim to property line (MA law). Contact: DPI: 508-979-1550.

Unauthorized removal of public shade tree: $500 to $5,000+ (MGL c.87 §6). Replacement planting may be required.

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Removal of public trees in New Bedford requires approval from the Department of Public Infrastructure. Private tree removal generally does not require a city permit unless the tree is in a protected area or historic district. Massachusetts law protects trees on public ways.

Key details: Public Trees: DPI approval required. Private Trees: No permit generally required. Historic Districts: Additional review may apply. State Law: MGL Ch. 87 public shade tree protection.

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

The Bottom Line

New Bedford'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 New Bedford is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that New Bedford 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.