Landscaping Rules in Matthews, NC (2026)
8 verified landscaping rules for Matthews, North Carolina, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Grass Height Limits
Matthews limits grass and weeds to 12 inches on occupied residential lots. Code Enforcement issues notices under the Town nuisance chapter; abatement costs become a lien.
Landscaping: Grass Height
Some RestrictionsTree Trimming
Matthews has a strong tree protection ordinance. Pruning on private property is allowed, but trimming street trees or protected trees requires coordination with the Town arborist.
Landscaping: Tree Trimming
Some RestrictionsTree Removal & Heritage Trees
Matthews requires permits to remove specimen or protected trees. UDO tree save rules protect canopy; removal of large healthy trees often triggers mitigation plantings or fees.
Landscaping: Tree Removal
Heavy RestrictionsWeed Ordinances
Matthews treats overgrown weeds as a public nuisance along with tall grass, enforced by Code Enforcement with the same 12-inch trigger and abatement process.
Landscaping: Weed Ordinances
Some RestrictionsWater Restrictions
Matthews is served by Charlotte Water. Year-round efficient irrigation rules apply; during drought, Charlotte Water implements tiered restrictions on outdoor watering days and hours.
Landscaping: Water Restrictions
Some RestrictionsRainwater Harvesting
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in North Carolina. Matthews encourages rain barrels and cisterns for irrigation. No permit needed for simple residential barrels.
Landscaping: Rainwater Harvesting
Few RestrictionsNative Plants
Matthews supports native Piedmont plantings. The UDO landscape standards favor drought-tolerant natives, and residential native-plant yards are permitted if maintained.
Landscaping: Native Plants
Few RestrictionsArtificial Turf
Matthews generally permits artificial turf on private residential lots. Stormwater and UDO standards require permeable edges or drainage to prevent runoff issues.
Landscaping: Artificial Turf
Few RestrictionsLooking for Mecklenburg County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Matthews city rules.
Landscaping Rules in Mecklenburg County →