Taunton's Landscaping Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles landscaping rules a little differently. In Taunton, Massachusetts, 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.

Water Restrictions

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

Key details: Authority: City water department / MassDEP. Drought Restrictions: May be imposed seasonally. State Authority: MassDEP outdoor water use restrictions. Conservation: Required during drought periods.

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

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Removal of public trees in Taunton requires city approval under MGL Ch. 87. Private tree removal generally does not require a city permit unless the tree is on a public way or in a protected area. The zoning ordinance requires tree preservation in landscaping buffer zones.

Key details: Public Trees: City approval required (MGL Ch. 87). Private Trees: No permit generally required. Buffer Zones: Trees preserved in zoning buffers. Canopy Trees: Required in parking lot landscaping.

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

Tree Trimming

Taunton manages public trees through the Department of Public Works. Property owners must maintain trees to prevent hazards to public ways. Massachusetts law (MGL Ch. 87) protects public shade trees. Property owners may trim branches extending over their property line.

Key details: Public Trees: Managed by DPW. Private Trees: Owner responsible for hazard prevention. State Law: MGL Ch. 87 — public shade trees. Overhanging Branches: May trim to property line.

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

Grass Height Limits

Taunton enforces property maintenance standards through its code enforcement division. Overgrown vegetation is addressed as a nuisance condition. The Board of Health investigates nuisance complaints related to property conditions. General ordinance penalties of $50/$100/$300 apply.

Key details: Enforcement: Code Enforcement / Board of Health. Standard: Nuisance provisions apply. Fine (1st): $50. Fine (3rd+): $300.

Notice to abate. Municipal abatement at owner’s expense ($200 to $800+). Administrative fees. Property lien for non-payment.

The Bottom Line

Taunton'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 Taunton is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Taunton's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.