Landscaping Rules in Dearborn, MI (2026)
8 verified landscaping rules for Dearborn, Michigan, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Grass Height Limits
Dearborn's property maintenance ordinance requires grass and weeds on residential and vacant lots to be kept under 8 inches, with the city authorized to cut overgrown lawns and bill the owner.
Dearborn Grass Height Rules
Some RestrictionsTree Trimming
Dearborn property owners must trim private trees that overhang sidewalks to at least 8 feet and streets to at least 13.5 feet, while street trees in the public right of way are managed by the city.
Dearborn Tree Trimming Rules
Some RestrictionsTree Removal & Heritage Trees
Private tree removal on residential property generally does not require a permit in Dearborn, but trees in the public right of way or protected landmark trees need city approval before removal.
Dearborn Tree Removal Rules
Few RestrictionsWeed Ordinances
Dearborn prohibits noxious weeds including ragweed, poison ivy, and other state-listed species, and requires property owners to abate weed growth over about 8 inches or face city cutting and billing.
Dearborn Weed Ordinances
Some RestrictionsWater Restrictions
Dearborn buys water from Great Lakes Water Authority and imposes no permanent outdoor watering restrictions, though voluntary conservation is encouraged and emergency limits may apply during main breaks.
Dearborn Water Restrictions
Few RestrictionsRainwater Harvesting
Rainwater harvesting for outdoor irrigation is legal in Dearborn with no state prohibition; indoor potable or non-potable use must comply with Michigan plumbing code and EGLE cross-connection rules.
Dearborn Rainwater Harvesting Rules
Few RestrictionsNative Plants
Dearborn allows native plant landscaping, rain gardens, and naturalized areas as long as they are intentional, maintained, and free of noxious weeds or nuisance conditions per the property maintenance code.
Dearborn Native Plants Rules
Few RestrictionsArtificial Turf
Artificial turf is permitted on residential property in Dearborn with no citywide ban; installations should meet drainage requirements, lot coverage limits, and setbacks under the zoning code.
Dearborn Artificial Turf Rules
Few RestrictionsLooking for Wayne County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Dearborn city rules.
Landscaping Rules in Wayne County →