Landscaping Rules in Memphis, TN (2026)
8 verified landscaping rules for Memphis, Tennessee, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Grass Height Limits
Memphis enforces maximum grass and weed height per TN Code §6-54-113. Overgrown properties subject to code compliance action and city abatement.
Memphis Grass Height Limits
Some RestrictionsTree Trimming
Memphis regulates trimming and removal of public right-of-way trees through the Division of Parks and Urban Forestry. Private trees on private property may generally be trimmed without a permit, but overhanging branches have defined neighbor rights under Tennessee common law.
Tree Trimming Rules in Memphis
Some RestrictionsTree Removal & Heritage Trees
Tree removal in Memphis governed by the Unified Development Code. Street trees require permit from Memphis Public Works. The Wolf River Conservation greenway and riparian buffers provide additional tree protections near waterways.
Memphis Tree Removal Regulations
Some RestrictionsWeed Ordinances
Memphis requires grass and weeds to be kept below 10 inches. Overgrown lots are cited under the property maintenance code, and unresolved violations are abated by the city with the cost added to the property-tax lien.
Weed Ordinances in Memphis
Heavy RestrictionsWater Restrictions
Memphis is served by MLGW from the deep Memphis Sand aquifer and has no mandatory water-use restrictions or drought schedules. Voluntary conservation is encouraged during dry summers. MLGW offers rebates for efficient fixtures but does not impose watering-day rules.
Water Restrictions in Memphis
Few RestrictionsRainwater Harvesting
Memphis permits residential rainwater harvesting with no capacity cap. Rain barrels and cisterns are encouraged for landscape irrigation. Potable indoor use of harvested rainwater requires Shelby County Health Department approval and treatment.
Rainwater Harvesting Rules in Memphis
Few RestrictionsNative Plants
Memphis encourages native plantings and does not require turf lawns in residential zones. Pollinator and naturalized landscapes are permitted provided they comply with the 10-inch weed ordinance or are registered as managed natural areas.
Native Plant Rules in Memphis
Few RestrictionsArtificial Turf
Memphis allows artificial turf on residential property with no citywide ban. Front-yard installations may face HOA design review, and permeable base preparation is required for stormwater compliance. Commercial and athletic-field installations follow separate drainage and heat-management standards.