Landscaping Rules in Detroit, MI (2026)
8 verified landscaping rules for Detroit, Michigan, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Grass Height Limits
Detroit's Property Maintenance Code Section 8-15-35(a) requires every premises and exterior property to be maintained free from weeds or plant growth in excess of eight inches and from all noxious weeds. Enforcement is led by BSEED through Operation Compliance.
Detroit MI Grass Height Limit: 8 Inches (Property Maintenance Code)
Heavy RestrictionsTree Trimming
Property owners are responsible for trimming trees on private property and maintaining clearance over sidewalks (8 feet) and streets (14 feet) under Detroit Chapter 57.
Landscaping: Tree Trimming
Some RestrictionsTree Removal & Heritage Trees
Street trees and trees in the public right-of-way in Detroit are city-owned and may only be removed by the General Services Department Forestry Division. Trees on private property are generally the owner's responsibility, supported by the Dead, Dangerous, and Diseased Tree Program.
Detroit MI Tree Removal: City vs Private Tree Rules
Some RestrictionsWeed Ordinances
Detroit Property Maintenance Code Sec. 8-15-35(a) prohibits noxious weeds and any plant growth (excluding trees, shrubs, and cultivated gardens) over 8 inches. Michigan Public Act 359 of 1941 (Noxious Weed Act) supplements local authority with a commissioner-based abatement process.
Detroit MI Weed & Noxious Plant Ordinance (PMC + State Act 359)
Heavy RestrictionsWater Restrictions
The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) does not impose mandatory odd/even or time-of-day outdoor watering restrictions citywide. Conservation is encouraged through voluntary tips; supply comes from the Great Lakes Water Authority via Lake Huron.
Detroit MI Outdoor Watering: No Mandatory City Restrictions
Few RestrictionsRainwater Harvesting
Rainwater harvesting is legal in Detroit with no state permit required; GLWA (Great Lakes Water Authority) combined sewer system makes rain barrels a proven CSO-reduction tool, and DWSD offers periodic rain barrel distribution programs.
landscaping/rainwater-harvesting
Few RestrictionsNative Plants
Detroit allows and encourages native plantings. No ordinance requires a mowed lawn; but all vegetation must stay under 8 inches unless it qualifies as a managed natural area registered with BSEED.
Landscaping: Native Plants
Few RestrictionsArtificial Turf
Artificial turf is legal in Detroit for residential and commercial use. No HOA-style restrictions citywide. Must meet DWSD stormwater permeability standards if covering over 1,000 sq ft.
Landscaping: Artificial Turf
Few RestrictionsLooking for Wayne County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Detroit city rules.
Landscaping Rules in Wayne County →