Shreveport's Landscaping Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles landscaping rules a little differently. In Shreveport, Louisiana, there are 4 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.

Grass Height Limits

Shreveport requires property owners to maintain vegetation under Chapter 58 (Nuisances). Grass and weeds exceeding 12 inches are considered a nuisance subject to city abatement.

Key details: Maximum Height: 12 inches. Code Section: Chapter 58 — Nuisances. Enforcement: City-contracted abatement. Cost Recovery: Lien on property.

Non-compliant properties receive abatement notices. The city may cut vegetation and bill the owner, placing liens on the property for costs.

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

Water Restrictions

Shreveport may impose water conservation restrictions during drought conditions. The Shreveport Water and Sewer Department manages water use regulations.

Key details: Restrictions: Imposed during drought conditions. Provider: Shreveport Water and Sewer. Rain Watering: Prohibited. Runoff: Should be minimized.

Water waste during restrictions results in warnings followed by fines for continued violations.

Tree Trimming

Shreveport requires property owners to maintain trees that overhang public rights-of-way. Branches must provide adequate clearance over sidewalks and streets.

Key details: Sidewalk Clearance: 8 feet minimum. Street Clearance: 14 feet minimum. Sight Lines: Must not obstruct. Street Trees: City maintained.

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

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Shreveport protects certain trees through its development code. Removing trees in development areas may require mitigation. Heritage trees and trees in historic districts have additional protections.

Key details: Development: Tree preservation required. Historic Districts: Additional protections. Hazardous Trees: May remove with documentation. Mitigation: Replacement planting may be required.

Removing protected trees during development without mitigation results in fines and required replacement planting.

The Bottom Line

Shreveport'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 Shreveport is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Shreveport 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.