Landscaping Rules in Chesapeake, VA (2026)
8 verified landscaping rules for Chesapeake, Virginia, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Grass Height Limits
Chesapeake limits grass and weeds to 12 inches. Taller growth is a code violation. Notices allow 10 days to cut before the city abates and places a lien on the property for mowing costs plus fees.
Landscaping: Grass Height
Some RestrictionsTree Trimming
Chesapeake homeowners may trim trees on their own property without a permit. Right-of-way trees require Public Works coordination. Virginia common law lets you trim encroaching branches up to the property line.
Landscaping: Tree Trimming
Few RestrictionsTree Removal & Heritage Trees
Chesapeake generally allows tree removal on private property without a permit. Chesapeake Bay Act rules (VA Code 62.1-44) restrict removal within Resource Protection Areas along waterways and wetlands.
Landscaping: Tree Removal
Some RestrictionsWeed Ordinances
Chesapeake prohibits noxious weeds under the same 12-inch rule. Poison ivy, ragweed, kudzu, and other listed nuisance plants must be removed when they affect neighbors. Inspections are complaint-driven.
Landscaping: Weed Ordinances
Some RestrictionsWater Restrictions
Chesapeake Public Utilities imposes water restrictions during DEQ drought stages. Outdoor watering is typically limited to odd/even days and morning/evening hours. Voluntary conservation is common in summer.
Landscaping: Water Restrictions
Some RestrictionsRainwater Harvesting
Chesapeake encourages rainwater harvesting for irrigation. Rain barrels and cisterns are allowed without permits for non-potable use. Virginia has no capture restrictions. Bay Act stormwater credits may apply.
Landscaping: Rainwater Harvesting
Few RestrictionsNative Plants
Chesapeake encourages native plants for Bay watershed protection. Natives reduce water needs, support pollinators, and qualify for Resource Protection Area buffer credits. No permits needed for homeowner plantings.
Landscaping: Native Plants
Few RestrictionsArtificial Turf
Chesapeake permits artificial turf on residential properties without a specific permit. Large areas or Bay Resource Protection Area installations may need stormwater review. HOAs commonly restrict turf in front yards.
Landscaping: Artificial Turf
Few RestrictionsLooking for Chesapeake City county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Chesapeake city rules.
Landscaping Rules in Chesapeake City →