West Allis's Landscaping Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles landscaping rules a little differently. In West Allis, Wisconsin, 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.

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

In West Allis, no one may cut, prune, remove, or treat a tree or shrub growing in the city terrace or boulevard strip without written permission from the Director of Public Works, per § 11.135.

Key details: Covers: terrace/boulevard trees only. Permit from: Director of Public Works. Citation: § 11.135. Exempt: turf care, sucker pruning.

Cutting, pruning, or removing a tree in a West Allis terrace or boulevard without Director of Public Works permission, or otherwise injuring a terrace tree, violates § 11.135 and the Chapter 11 general forfeiture under § 11.17.

Compared to other cities, West Allis takes a harder line on tree removal & heritage trees. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Weed Ordinances

West Allis caps grass in lawn areas at 6 inches and bans noxious weeds under the Property Maintenance Code, Revised Municipal Code § 13.28(10)(b); the city can mow and bill violators.

Key details: Max height: 6 inches. Citation: § 13.28(10)(b). Notice before city mows: 3 business days. Noxious weeds: prohibited, must be destroyed.

Grass over six inches or uncontrolled noxious weeds violates § 13.28(10)(b); after notice, the City can mow the lot itself and bill the owner, with unpaid costs becoming a special property tax assessment.

The Bottom Line

West Allis'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 West Allis is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that West Allis 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.