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

If you live in Salem or are thinking about moving there, landscaping rules are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Salem has 8 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of landscaping rules, and some of them might surprise you.

Native Plants

Salem Revised Code Chapter 807 establishes landscaping and screening standards for all non-single-family development. The city actively encourages use of native, drought-tolerant species but does not mandate them for existing residential yards. Native plants satisfy code requirements and reduce irrigation needs.

Key details: Applies to: Non-single-family development. Single-family mandate: None; voluntary only. Incentive section: SRC §807.035. Code chapter: SRC Chapter 807.

Non-compliance with approved landscaping plans can result in withholding of certificates of occupancy or civil enforcement action under SRC Chapter 50.

Salem is more permissive than most cities when it comes to native plants. That said, there are still limits.

Artificial Turf

Salem's UDC Chapter 807 establishes landscaping standards for new development but does not explicitly ban artificial turf. Synthetic ground cover may substitute for live plants in some contexts; landscaping plans must be submitted with development applications.

Key details: Governing code: SRC Chapter 807 (UDC Landscaping & Screening). Artificial turf ban: Not explicitly prohibited. Plan submittal: Required with development applications. Enforcing authority: Salem Planning Division.

Non-compliant landscaping may trigger code enforcement action. Failure to install approved landscaping can result in civil penalties under SRC Chapter 50 (Property Maintenance).

Salem is more permissive than most cities when it comes to artificial turf. That said, there are still limits.

Weed Ordinances

Salem declares overgrown weeds and tall grass a public nuisance under SRC Chapter 98. Property owners must maintain vegetation to prevent it from becoming a hazard or eyesore; the city may abate and bill owners for costs.

Key details: Governing code: SRC Ch. 98 & Ch. 50. Enforcement: Salem Code Enforcement. Remedy: Notice, abatement, cost lien. County overlay: Marion Co. Ordinance No. 1193.

First notice allows a compliance period; non-compliance results in city abatement with costs billed to owner plus a civil penalty lien on the property.

Composting

Salem encourages home composting and offers curbside yard-debris collection. SRC Chapter 47 governs solid waste and yard debris. No permit is required for backyard compost bins; residents must not allow composting to create odor or pest nuisances.

Key details: Permit required: No permit needed. Curbside yard debris: Available citywide. Street leaf blowing: Prohibited (SRC 76.015). Governing code: SRC Chapter 47.

Composting that creates a nuisance (odors, pests) may be cited under SRC Chapter 50 property-maintenance provisions; civil penalties apply per notice of violation.

Salem is more permissive than most cities when it comes to composting. That said, there are still limits.

Water Restrictions

Salem implements water conservation through its public water system. Summer watering restrictions may apply during drought conditions. The city encourages water-wise landscaping.

Key details: Water Source: North Santiam River. Drought Restrictions: Odd/even schedules may apply. Watering Times: Before 10 AM or after 6 PM preferred. Conservation: Water-wise landscaping encouraged.

Water waste during mandatory restrictions results in warnings and escalating fines.

Grass Height Limits

Salem requires property owners to maintain vegetation and prevent overgrown conditions. Grass and weeds must be kept at a reasonable height to prevent nuisance and fire hazard conditions.

Key details: Maximum Height: Approximately 10 inches. Enforcement: Complaint-based and proactive. Vacant Lots: Same standards apply. Non-Compliance: City abatement with lien.

Owners receive notice with a compliance deadline. Non-compliance results in city abatement with costs billed to the owner as a property lien.

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Salem has strong tree protection under its UDC. Tree removal may require permits, especially for significant trees and trees within development areas. Oregon prioritizes tree preservation.

Key details: Permit May Be Required: For significant trees. Development: Tree preservation plan required. Exemptions: Dead, diseased, or hazardous trees. Oregon Values: Strong statewide tree preservation.

Unauthorized removal of protected trees results in fines and mandatory replacement planting. Development violations may affect project approvals.

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

Tree Trimming

Salem requires property owners to maintain trees that overhang public rights-of-way. Minimum clearance of 8 feet over sidewalks and 14 feet over streets is required.

Key details: Sidewalk Clearance: 8 feet minimum. Street Clearance: 14 feet minimum. Urban Forestry: City maintains public trees. Private Trees: Owner responsibility.

Failure to maintain clearance results in notices. The city may perform trimming and bill the property owner.

The Bottom Line

Compared to many U.S. cities, Salem gives residents more room on landscaping rules. 3 of the 8 rules here are rated permissive. But permissive does not mean unregulated. There are still requirements, and the city does enforce them when violations are reported.

Keep in mind that Salem 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.