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Landscaping Rules

Quincy's Landscaping Rules: The Rules That Matter

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

Every city handles landscaping rules a little differently. In Quincy, Massachusetts, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Weed Ordinances

Quincy, Massachusetts (Norfolk County) treats dead vegetation over 12 inches covering more than half of a visible front or side yard as an unlawful public nuisance under its property maintenance code.

Key details: Height trigger: Over 12 inches, dead. Coverage trigger: More than 50% of yard. Right-of-way limit: 12 inches onto right-of-way. Enforcer: Director of Inspectional Services. Fine: $200 per day, per violation.

Letting weeds or dead vegetation exceed 12 inches over half a visible yard, or grow onto the public right-of-way, triggers a written abatement order and a $200-per-day fine if uncorrected.

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Before removing a significant tree (over 8 inches DBH) on a development project, Quincy property owners must submit a tree study to the City Arborist at least 21 days ahead, per Chapter 311.

Key details: Lead time required: 21 days before application. Applies to: Variance, special permit, by-right builds. Reviewed by: City Arborist. Governing chapter: Chapter 311, adopted 2008.

Building without a certified tree study, or violating its conditions, triggers a stop-work order and fines up to $300 per day under § 311-10; occupancy permits are withheld until compliance.

The Bottom Line

Quincy'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 Quincy is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Quincy 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.