Landscaping Rules in Auburn, WA (2026)
8 verified landscaping rules for Auburn, Washington, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Grass Height Limits
Auburn regulates overgrown vegetation as a nuisance under ACC 8.12. Grass and weeds over 12 inches on developed lots trigger abatement notice. Native plantings are exempt with approved plan.
Auburn Tall Grass and Weed Rules
Few RestrictionsTree Trimming
Auburn regulates tree pruning under ACC 18.76 Tree Preservation. Trimming of significant trees over 6 in DBH must follow ANSI A300; topping is discouraged. ROW branches under 14 ft must be trimmed.
Auburn Tree Trimming Rules
Some RestrictionsTree Removal & Heritage Trees
Auburn requires a tree removal permit under ACC 18.76 for significant trees 6 in DBH or larger. Hazard trees have an expedited process. Unpermitted removal can trigger fines up to $5,000 per tree.
Auburn Tree Removal Permit Rules
Heavy RestrictionsWeed Ordinances
Auburn owners must control state-listed noxious weeds under RCW 17.10 and King County Weed Board rules. Class A must be eradicated, Class B controlled. ACC 8.12 treats overgrown weeds as nuisance.
Auburn Noxious Weed Control
Some RestrictionsWater Restrictions
Auburn Utilities uses voluntary lawn watering guidelines May-September with odd-even schedules and watering before 10 AM or after 6 PM. Mandatory drought restrictions activate under ACC 13.06.
Auburn Outdoor Water Use Rules
Some RestrictionsRainwater Harvesting
WA authorizes rainwater harvesting under RCW 90.03.260. Auburn allows rooftop rain barrels for non-potable use with no permit. Systems over 5,000 gal need review. Potable use requires DOH approval.
Auburn Rainwater Harvesting Rules
Few RestrictionsNative Plants
Auburn encourages native plants under ACC 18.50. Natives satisfy critical area mitigation and stormwater plans. Native yards are exempt from the tall grass rule when intentionally designed and maintained.
Auburn Native Plant Landscaping
Few RestrictionsArtificial Turf
Auburn permits artificial turf in residential yards with no specific ban. Commercial and multi-family projects must meet ACC 18.50 screening and ACC 13.48 stormwater standards. HOAs may restrict.
Auburn Artificial Turf Rules
Few RestrictionsLooking for King County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Auburn city rules.
Landscaping Rules in King County →