Landscaping Rules in Norfolk, VA (2026)
8 verified landscaping rules for Norfolk, Virginia, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Grass Height Limits
Norfolk limits grass and weeds to 12 inches maximum on residential and commercial lots under City Code Chapter 27 (Weeds, Grass and Refuse). Violations trigger notice, abatement, and property liens.
Landscaping: Grass Height
Heavy RestrictionsTree Trimming
Norfolk regulates public tree trimming through the Department of Recreation, Parks and Open Space. Street trees and trees in the right-of-way require a permit to prune. Private property trees generally require no permit except in Chesapeake Bay buffers.
Landscaping: Tree Trimming
Some RestrictionsTree Removal & Heritage Trees
Norfolk requires permits to remove any tree in the public right-of-way, Chesapeake Bay buffer, or protected canopy area. Private trees outside these zones can generally be removed, but replacement rules apply for site plan properties.
Landscaping: Tree Removal
Heavy RestrictionsVa. Code § 15.2-961 (Replacement of Trees During Development Process)
§ 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 ba...
Weed Ordinances
Norfolk treats weeds under the same 12-inch rule as grass in City Code Chapter 27. Noxious weeds identified by Virginia Department of Agriculture must be controlled regardless of height. Poison ivy and invasive species are owner responsibility.
Landscaping: Weed Ordinances
Heavy RestrictionsWater Restrictions
Norfolk is served by the Norfolk Department of Utilities, which can impose water use restrictions during drought under the City Drought Management Plan. The city draws from Lake Prince, Lake Smith, and other reservoirs. Voluntary conservation is promoted year-round.
Landscaping: Water Restrictions
Some RestrictionsRainwater Harvesting
Rainwater harvesting is legal and encouraged in Norfolk. Virginia has no state-level restrictions and actively supports rainwater capture through the Virginia DEQ stormwater programs. Systems under 5,000 gallons typically require no permit.
Landscaping: Rainwater Harvesting
Few RestrictionsNative Plants
Norfolk encourages native plant landscaping and offers it as an exemption from the 12-inch grass rule when properly designed. The city partners with Virginia Cooperative Extension and the Chesapeake Bay Foundation on native plant programs.
Landscaping: Native Plants
Few RestrictionsArtificial Turf
Artificial turf is allowed in Norfolk residential yards under zoning code but faces limits under Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area rules because it counts as impervious surface. Front yard turf may be restricted in historic districts.
Landscaping: Artificial Turf
Some RestrictionsLooking for Norfolk City county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Norfolk city rules.
Landscaping Rules in Norfolk City →