Landscaping Rules in Des Moines, IA (2026)
8 verified landscaping rules for Des Moines, Iowa, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Grass Height Limits
Des Moines requires property owners to keep grass and weeds below 12 inches under the property maintenance code. The city actively enforces with notices and may mow non-compliant properties, billing the owner.
Des Moines Grass Height & Weed Ordinance
Heavy RestrictionsTree Trimming
Des Moines requires property owners to maintain trees so they do not obstruct sidewalks, streets, or sight lines. Minimum clearance of 8 feet over sidewalks and 14 feet over streets is required.
Des Moines Tree Trimming Rules
Some RestrictionsTree Removal & Heritage Trees
Des Moines requires permits for removing trees in the public right-of-way. Trees on private property may generally be removed by the owner, but boulevard trees between the sidewalk and curb are managed by the city's Forestry Division.
Des Moines Tree Removal Regulations
Some RestrictionsWater Restrictions
Des Moines Water Works may impose seasonal watering restrictions during drought conditions. Odd/even watering schedules may be activated. Iowa generally has adequate water supply, so permanent restrictions are uncommon.
Des Moines Water Use Restrictions
Few RestrictionsRainwater Harvesting
Des Moines has no local ordinance restricting rainwater harvesting. Iowa state law imposes no limitations on rainwater collection, making rain barrels and cisterns fully legal throughout the city. The city's stormwater program even promotes rainwater harvesting as a best management practice.
Des Moines Has No Restriction on Residential Rainwater Harvesting
Few RestrictionsNative Plants
Des Moines prohibits grass and vegetation over 10 inches as a nuisance under Chapter 42. A 2024 amendment created exceptions for intentionally cultivated gardens, native plantings, and farmland, allowing residents to maintain prairie and pollinator gardens without violation.
Des Moines Native Plant and Nuisance Vegetation Rules
Some RestrictionsArtificial Turf
Des Moines has no specific municipal ordinance banning or restricting artificial turf in residential yards. The city regulates grass and weed height under Chapter 42 (Nuisances), but synthetic turf is not addressed, making it permissive by default.
Des Moines Artificial Turf Landscaping Rules
Few RestrictionsComposting
Des Moines permits residents to compost organic yard and kitchen material on their property, provided it is suitably contained. Yard debris — grass clippings, leaves, and garden waste — is excluded from the city's solid-waste disposal prohibitions when composted properly.