Landscaping Rules in Takoma Park, MD (2026)
8 verified landscaping rules for Takoma Park, Maryland, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Grass Height Limits
Takoma Park enforces a 12-inch maximum grass and weed height under property maintenance standards. Native plant meadows and pollinator gardens are exempt when clearly maintained.
Takoma Park Grass Height Requirements
Some RestrictionsTree Trimming
Takoma Park Code Chapter 12 regulates all tree trimming. Only city-authorized crews may prune public trees. Topping is prohibited on all trees, public and private.
Takoma Park Tree Trimming Regulations
Heavy RestrictionsTree Removal & Heritage Trees
Takoma Park Code Chapter 12 requires a permit to remove any tree 6 inches DBH or greater on private property -- one of the strictest thresholds in Maryland. Replacement plantings or Tree Fund payment required.
Takoma Park Tree Removal Ordinance
Heavy RestrictionsWeed Ordinances
Takoma Park bans cosmetic pesticides under the Safe Grow Act (Ordinance 2013-10) -- the first such U.S. municipal ban. Only organic weed control is permitted on private lawns.
Takoma Park Weed Control Ordinances
Some RestrictionsWater Restrictions
WSSC Water serves Takoma Park and implements staged drought restrictions: odd/even watering schedules, then two-day limits, then full outdoor bans. The city promotes rain barrels and native plantings.
Takoma Park Water Use Restrictions
Some RestrictionsRainwater Harvesting
Rainwater harvesting is legal and encouraged in Takoma Park. Maryland permits collection for non-potable use. The city has offered subsidized rain barrel programs to protect Sligo Creek.
Takoma Park Rainwater Harvesting
Few RestrictionsNative Plants
Takoma Park actively promotes native plant landscaping and pollinator gardens. The Safe Grow Act supports chemical-free gardening. Montgomery County RainScapes offers rebates for turf-to-native conversions.
Takoma Park Native Plant Policies
Few RestrictionsArtificial Turf
Takoma Park does not ban artificial turf but does not encourage it. Large installations may require stormwater review as impervious surface. The city favors native plant alternatives.
Takoma Park Artificial Turf Policies
Some RestrictionsLooking for Montgomery County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Takoma Park city rules.
Landscaping Rules in Montgomery County →