Union City's Landscaping Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles landscaping rules a little differently. In Union City, New Jersey, 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

Union City requires property owners to maintain lots free of excessive grass and weeds under its property maintenance code. The standard enforcement threshold is approximately 8–10 inches. Code enforcement can cut grass at owner's expense and lien the property.

Key details: Typical Limit: ~8–10 inches before violation. Enforcement: Code Enforcement, (201) 348-5706. Non-Compliance: City cuts and liens property for costs. Topic: Grass Height.

Excessive grass/weeds: violation notice, city-ordered cutting at owner's expense, municipal lien.

Tree Trimming

Union City regulates trimming of trees in the public right-of-way under Chapter 223 and applicable tree ordinances. Street tree trimming requires a permit. Private trees on private property may be trimmed without a city permit.

Key details: Street Trees: Permit required from Public Works. Private Trees: No permit needed on own property. Pesticides: NJ Applicator License required for ROW. Contact: Public Works, (201) 348-5700.

Unpermitted trimming of street trees: fine. Pesticide application without license: state violation.

Water Restrictions

Union City water is supplied by Jersey City Municipal Utilities Authority (MUA) and United Water/Suez. NJDEP drought declarations may trigger mandatory restrictions on lawn watering and other outdoor water use. No permanent restrictions under normal conditions.

Key details: Normal Conditions: No mandatory restrictions. Drought Restrictions: NJDEP-triggered. NJDEP Info: njdep.nj.gov/watersupply. Contact: City Hall, (201) 348-5700.

Violating drought-triggered water restrictions: utility fines and NJDEP penalties.

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Removing street trees or trees in Union City's public right-of-way requires a permit from the city. Private tree removal on private property generally has fewer requirements. Construction projects must address any tree impacts in permit applications.

Key details: Street Trees: Permit required from Public Works. Private Trees: Generally fewer restrictions. Construction: Must address tree impacts in permits. Contact: Public Works, (201) 348-5700.

Removing public/street tree without permit: fine and replacement requirement. Private tree removal without permit (if required): zoning violation.

The Bottom Line

Union City'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 Union City is broadly strict or permissive.

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