Landscaping Rules in Rockville, MD (2026)
8 verified landscaping rules for Rockville, Maryland, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Grass Height Limits
Rockville's Property Maintenance Code (Chapter 5, Article XII) requires all areas including public rights-of-way adjacent to the property to be kept free from weeds or plant growth in excess of 10 inches. Weeds are defined as all grasses, annual plants, and vegetation other than trees, shrubs, cultivated flowers, and gardens.
Rockville Grass Height and Lawn Maintenance Ordinance
Some RestrictionsTree Trimming
Rockville's Forest and Tree Preservation Ordinance (Chapter 10.5) prohibits residents from pruning, removing, or conducting any tree care on trees located in the public right-of-way or city parks without authorization. Private trees may be trimmed by the property owner, but any work affecting significant trees requires compliance with city forestry standards.
Rockville Tree Trimming Regulations
Heavy RestrictionsTree Removal & Heritage Trees
Rockville's Forest and Tree Preservation Ordinance (Chapter 10.5) requires a Significant Tree Removal Permit for removal of any tree with a diameter exceeding 4 inches measured 12 inches above ground, or any flowering tree exceeding 2 inches in diameter. Removed trees must be replaced according to city-established mitigation rates.
Rockville Tree Removal Permit Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsWeed Ordinances
Rockville's Property Maintenance Code (Chapter 5, Article XII, Section 5-287) requires property owners to keep all areas free from weeds or plant growth in excess of 10 inches. The ordinance defines weeds as all grasses, annual plants, and vegetation other than trees, shrubs, cultivated flowers, and gardens.
Rockville Weed Control Ordinance
Some RestrictionsWater Restrictions
Rockville is served by WSSC Water (Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission), which imposes mandatory outdoor watering restrictions during drought conditions. When mandatory restrictions are in effect, all outdoor water use is banned including lawn watering, filling pools, and washing outdoor surfaces, with violations subject to $500 fines enforced through Montgomery County.
Rockville Water Use Restrictions for Landscaping
Some RestrictionsRainwater Harvesting
Maryland law permits rainwater harvesting for non-potable uses, and Rockville actively encourages it through the RainScapes Rebate Program, which provides rebates of up to $5,000 for rain barrels, cisterns, and other stormwater management installations. No city permit is required for standard rain barrels.
Rockville Rainwater Harvesting Rules
Few RestrictionsNative Plants
Rockville encourages native plant use in residential landscaping through its RainScapes program and forest conservation initiatives. The city maintains a species list for approved plantings and encourages Chesapeake Bay-friendly landscaping practices. Native plant gardens are exempt from the 10-inch vegetation height limit when maintained as cultivated gardens.
Rockville Native Plant Landscaping Guidelines
Few RestrictionsArtificial Turf
Rockville does not have a specific ordinance prohibiting or restricting residential artificial turf installation. Artificial turf is generally permitted on private residential property, though it may be subject to review in historic districts and planned development zones under the city's landscaping and exterior alteration guidelines.
Rockville Artificial Turf Regulations
Few RestrictionsLooking for Montgomery County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Rockville city rules.
Landscaping Rules in Montgomery County →