Landscaping Rules in Newark, NJ (2026)
8 verified landscaping rules for Newark, New Jersey, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Grass Height Limits
Newark Ch. 18:7-5 (Property Maintenance) requires owners to keep grass and vegetation cut below 8 inches. The City may abate violations and place a lien on the property for cleanup costs.
Landscaping: Grass Height
Heavy RestrictionsTree Trimming
Newark Ch. 37:1 (Shade Tree Commission) governs street and public trees. Property owners must keep branches trimmed to 8 ft over sidewalks and 14 ft over streets. Unauthorized removal of city trees is prohibited.
Landscaping: Tree Trimming
Some RestrictionsTree Removal & Heritage Trees
Street trees in Newark are city property — contact the Division of Forestry before any work. Private property tree removal should be cleared with the Zoning/Engineering Dept.
Newark Tree Removal Regulations
Some RestrictionsWeed Ordinances
Newark Ch. 18:7-5 and NJ state law N.J.S.A. 40:48-2.27 declare overgrown weeds and brush a public nuisance. Owners must remove weeds and keep property clear of rank vegetation. City can abate and lien.
Landscaping: Weed Ordinances
Heavy RestrictionsWater Restrictions
Newark water is supplied by Newark Water and Sewer Department. NJ DEP may impose mandatory drought restrictions statewide. Newark follows NJ Water Supply Plan stages: voluntary conservation, mandatory odd/even watering, and full bans.
Landscaping: Water Restrictions
Some RestrictionsRainwater Harvesting
New Jersey does not prohibit residential rainwater harvesting. Newark encourages rain barrel use through its stormwater management and green infrastructure programs. No city permit is required for standard rain barrels.
Landscaping: Rainwater Harvesting
Few RestrictionsNative Plants
Newark has no ordinance restricting native plant landscaping. NJ encourages native plantings for pollinator habitat. Property must still meet height and maintenance standards under Ch. 18:7-5 (vegetation under 8 inches in maintained areas).
Landscaping: Native Plants
Few RestrictionsArtificial Turf
Newark has no specific ordinance banning or regulating artificial turf on residential property. Standard zoning and property maintenance codes apply. No special permit is required for residential synthetic lawn installation.
Landscaping: Artificial Turf
Few RestrictionsLooking for Essex County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Newark city rules.
Landscaping Rules in Essex County →