Mahwah vs Ridgewood
How do grass height limits rules compare between Mahwah, NJ and Ridgewood, NJ?
Mahwah has fewer restrictions than Ridgewood.
Mahwah, NJ
Bergen County
Mahwah Township requires all premises and exterior property to be kept free from weeds or plant growth exceeding 10 inches in height.
View full Mahwah rules →Ridgewood, NJ
Bergen County
Ridgewood requires owners and tenants to keep grass and weeds cut on lands abutting public streets, removing overgrowth within three days after written notice.
View full Ridgewood rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mahwah | Ridgewood |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum height | 10 inches | - |
| Code chapter | Chapter 10 Building/Housing | - |
| Enforcement | Property Maintenance Dept. | - |
| Exemptions | Cultivated flowers, gardens | - |
| Code Chapter | - | Chapter 115 |
| Cure Period | - | 3 days after notice |
| First Fine | - | $125 |
| Repeat Fine | - | Up to $350 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mahwah FAQ
Does the 10-inch limit apply to ornamental gardens?
No. Cultivated flowers and gardens are excluded from the weed definition, so intentionally planted ornamental beds are not subject to the 10-inch height restriction in Mahwah.
Who enforces the grass height rule in Mahwah?
The Mahwah Planning, Zoning & Property Maintenance Department enforces the ordinance. Residents can call 201-529-5757, Option 5, to report violations or ask compliance questions.
Ridgewood FAQ
How tall can grass legally grow in Ridgewood?
Ridgewood does not set a numeric height in inches but prohibits accumulations of grass and weeds on lands abutting streets. Once notified, owners must remove the growth within three days.
What happens if I do not cut overgrown weeds?
The Village can enter the property to perform the work and bill the owner. The cost becomes a municipal lien, and fines under Chapter 223 begin at $125 for a first offense.
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