Grass Height Limits: Phoenix vs Scottsdale
How do grass height limits rules compare between Phoenix, AZ and Scottsdale, AZ?
Phoenix and Scottsdale have similar restriction levels.
Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Phoenix City Code Chapter 39, Section 39-7 limits lawn grass height to 6 inches. Properties must be kept free from overgrown grass that presents visual blight, harbors insects or rodents, or creates fire hazards. This does not apply to single-residence rear yards not visible from the adjacent right-of-way. Code Compliance investigates complaints.
View full Phoenix rules →Scottsdale, AZ
Maricopa County
Scottsdale requires residential properties to maintain grass and vegetation at a neat, orderly appearance under general property maintenance standards. While no specific maximum grass height is codified, overgrown lawns that create a blighted or unsightly condition will trigger code enforcement action.
View full Scottsdale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Phoenix | Scottsdale |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Height | 6 inches | - |
| Exception | Rear yards not visible from ROW | - |
| Enforcement | Neighborhood Services Code Compliance | - |
| Code | Chapter 39, Section 39-7 | - |
| Specific Height Limit | - | No codified maximum; general maintenance standard applies |
| Standard | - | Neat, orderly, not blighted or unsightly |
| Common Grasses | - | Bermuda (summer), ryegrass (winter overseed) |
| Dominant Landscaping | - | Xeriscape/desert landscaping most common |
| HOA Standards | - | Many HOAs impose specific lawn maintenance requirements |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Phoenix FAQ
What is the grass height limit in Phoenix?
Lawn grass cannot exceed 6 inches under Chapter 39. This applies to front and side yards and rear yards visible from the right-of-way.
Who do I call about an overgrown lawn in Phoenix?
Report overgrown grass, weeds, or uncut lots to Phoenix Public Works / 311 at 3-1-1 or (602) 262-6251. Code enforcement will inspect, issue a notice to the property owner, and charge abatement costs plus fines if the owner does not correct the violation within the posted timeframe.
Scottsdale FAQ
What is the maximum grass height in Scottsdale?
Scottsdale does not codify a specific grass height in inches. Property maintenance standards require vegetation to be maintained in a neat, orderly condition. Overgrown lawns may be cited.
Do most Scottsdale homes have grass lawns?
Most Scottsdale homes use desert-adapted xeriscape landscaping rather than traditional grass lawns. Where grass is present, Bermuda grass with winter ryegrass overseed is common.
Can my HOA require specific lawn maintenance?
Yes. Many Scottsdale HOAs impose specific lawn height, maintenance schedule, and appearance standards in their CC&Rs that may be stricter than city code.
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