Landscaping Rules in Herndon, VA (2026)
4 verified landscaping rules for Herndon, Virginia, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Grass Height Limits
Herndon requires property owners to keep grass and weeds cut to a reasonable height, generally not exceeding 12 inches, under authority of VA Code §15.2-901. Overgrown lots can be declared a nuisance. After notice, the town may cut the property and assess the cost as a lien against the owner. Violations typically incur fines of $100 to $250.
Landscaping: Grass Height
Some RestrictionsVa. Code § 15.2-901 — Cutting of grass, weeds, and running bamboo; penalty
The owners of occupied or vacant developed or undeveloped property therein, including such property upon which buildings or other improvements are located, shall cut the grass, weeds, and other foreign growth, including running bamboo as defined in § 15.2-901.1, on such property or any part thereof at such time or times as the governing body shall prescribe, or may, whenever the governing body ...
Tree Removal & Heritage Trees
Herndon protects trees through zoning-based tree canopy requirements and limited restrictions on heritage and specimen trees. Removal of healthy trees on private residential lots generally does not require a permit unless the tree is part of a required buffer, conservation easement, or site plan condition. Commercial and new development sites face tree preservation ordinances.
Landscaping: Tree Removal
Some RestrictionsVa. Code § 15.2-961 — Replacement of trees during development process in certain localities
A. Any locality with a population density of at least 75 persons per square mile or any locality within the Chesapeake Bay watershed may adopt an ordinance providing for the planting and replacement of trees during the development process pursuant to the provisions of this section. Population density shall be based upon the latest population estimates of the Cooper Center for Public Service of ...
Weed Ordinances
Virginia maintains a Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) invasive species list but does not broadly ban planting or require removal from private property. The 2024 Virginia nursery restriction law (HB 1167) prohibits retail sale of certain invasive plants starting January 2027. Herndon encourages native plantings but does not enforce invasive removal.
Landscaping: Invasive Species
Few RestrictionsWater Restrictions
Herndon is served by Fairfax Water, which implements regional conservation measures during droughts. Virginia DEQ issues drought advisories and the Governor may declare drought emergencies. During severe stages, outdoor watering, car washing, and non-essential water uses are restricted. Violations of mandatory restrictions can incur fines.
Landscaping: Water Restrictions
Some RestrictionsLooking for Fairfax County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Herndon city rules.
Landscaping Rules in Fairfax County →