Wilmington's Landscaping Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles landscaping rules a little differently. In Wilmington, Delaware, 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

Wilmington water use restrictions are issued as needed during drought conditions. The city's water is supplied by United Water Delaware; mandatory restrictions are declared by the utility or city during dry periods.

Key details: Permanent restrictions: None currently. Drought restrictions: Declared as needed by city/utility. Topic: Water Restrictions. Category: Landscaping.

Violations of mandatory restrictions during declared drought emergencies may result in fines.

The rules around water restrictions in Wilmington lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.

Grass Height Limits

Wilmington requires property owners to maintain grass and weeds at or below 10 inches. Violations are enforced by Code Enforcement.

Key details: Maximum grass height: Approximately 10 inches. Enforcement: Wilmington Code Enforcement. Topic: Grass Height. Category: Landscaping.

Property owners receive a notice of violation. Failure to comply results in the city mowing the property and billing the owner, plus fines.

Tree Trimming

Property owners in Wilmington are responsible for trimming trees on their property to prevent public nuisances. Street trees are managed by the city.

Key details: Sidewalk clearance: 8 feet minimum over sidewalks. Street clearance: 14 feet minimum over streets. Street tree management: Dept. of Parks and Recreation. Topic: Tree Trimming.

Failure to trim hazardous branches can result in citations and liability for damages.

The rules around tree trimming in Wilmington lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Removing trees in Wilmington may require permits, especially for street trees or in historic districts. Property owners are responsible for safe removal of hazardous trees.

Key details: Street tree removal: Requires city permit. Private trees: Generally no permit (exceptions for historic districts). Authority: Dept. of Parks and Recreation. Topic: Tree Removal.

Removing a street tree without a permit is a violation subject to fines and required replanting.

The Bottom Line

Compared to many U.S. cities, Wilmington gives residents more room on landscaping rules. 2 of the 4 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 Wilmington 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.