Landscaping Rules in Lincoln, NE (2026)
8 verified landscaping rules for Lincoln, Nebraska, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Grass Height Limits
Lincoln requires property owners to cut weeds and worthless vegetation that exceeds six inches above the ground under LMC Chapter 8.46. Owners must also maintain one-half of abutting streets and alleys. City weed abatement enforces compliance seasonally.
Landscaping: Grass Height
Some RestrictionsTree Trimming
Lincoln regulates street trees under LMC Chapter 12.20 (Trees and Shrubbery). Property owners must maintain trees adjacent to public rights-of-way and keep clear vertical and horizontal clearance for sidewalks and streets. Licensed arborists required for certain work per LMC Chapter 5.06.
Landscaping: Tree Trimming
Some RestrictionsTree Removal & Heritage Trees
Lincoln requires permits for removal of trees in public rights-of-way under LMC Chapter 12.20. Street tree removal must be approved by the Urban Forester. Private property tree removal generally does not require a city permit unless in a special zoning overlay.
Landscaping: Tree Removal
Some RestrictionsWeed Ordinances
Lincoln enforces weed abatement under LMC Chapter 8.46, requiring vegetation be kept below six inches. Lancaster County Weed Authority also enforces Nebraska Noxious Weed Control Act for designated noxious species. Failure to comply results in city abatement at the owner's expense.
Landscaping: Weed Ordinances
Some RestrictionsWater Restrictions
Lincoln Water System enforces a tiered Water Management Plan with odd/even address watering schedules. Voluntary conservation runs May through September. Mandatory restrictions can be activated during drought. No watering on Mondays is encouraged to replenish supply.
Landscaping: Water Restrictions
Some RestrictionsLincoln Water Management Plan (Lincoln Municipal Code Chapter 17.26); Sections I-III, Drought Water Conservation Phases
Water Management Plan (Revised 5/94, 4/00, 5/01, 3/12/03, 4/22/13, 8/21/15, 5/4/22). I. Introduction - A. Declaration of Purpose of Plan: The City of Lincoln first adopted the Water Management Plan in 1994 to provide guidance for imposing water conservation. The purpose of this Plan is to: (1) keep water use within pumping capacity and delivery capability, based on recommendations of the Lincol...
Rainwater Harvesting
Rainwater harvesting is legal in Lincoln and Nebraska with no state permit required for rain barrels used for irrigation. The City of Lincoln actively encourages rain barrel use for stormwater management. Indoor non-potable use requires compliance with the State Plumbing Code.
Landscaping: Rainwater Harvesting
Few RestrictionsNative Plants
Lincoln does not restrict native plant landscaping on private property. The city encourages native plantings through its Watershed Management program. The weed abatement ordinance (LMC 8.46) applies to vegetation over six inches, but intentional native gardens are generally distinguishable from neglected lots.
Landscaping: Native Plants
Few RestrictionsArtificial Turf
Lincoln does not have a specific ordinance regulating artificial turf installation on private residential property. Standard building setback and drainage requirements apply. HOA restrictions may exist independently of city code.