Brush Clearance: Riverview vs Tampa
How do brush clearance rules compare between Riverview, FL and Tampa, FL?
Riverview and Tampa have similar restriction levels.
Riverview, FL
Hillsborough County
Hillsborough County requires property owners in wildland-urban interface areas, particularly the rural eastern county and agricultural zones near Plant City, to maintain defensible space. Tall grass, palmetto, and accumulated vegetation must be cleared within 30 feet of structures during dry season.
View full Riverview rules →Tampa, FL
Hillsborough County
Tampa requires property owners to keep lots free of overgrown vegetation, dead brush, and accumulated yard waste under City Code Chapter 19 (Lot Clearing). While Florida's humid, subtropical climate makes Tampa less wildfire-prone than inland or western areas, dry spring conditions and hurricane debris create real fire hazards, especially in wildland-urban interface areas near Hillsborough River and conservation lands.
View full Tampa rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Riverview | Tampa |
|---|---|---|
| Defensible Space | 30 feet around structures | - |
| Grass Limit | 18 inches near buildings | - |
| Program | Firewise USA promoted | - |
| Enforcement | Code Enforcement plus Fire Rescue | - |
| Abatement | Lien if not cleared | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Riverview FAQ
Who enforces this in Hillsborough County?
Hillsborough County code enforcement at (813) 272-5900 handles complaints.
Who enforces this in Hillsborough County?
Hillsborough County code enforcement at (813) 272-5900 handles complaints.
Tampa FAQ
Does Tampa require a specific defensible-space width around homes?
No. Unlike California or Arizona, Tampa does not mandate a numeric defensible-space buffer. General lot-clearing standards apply under Chapter 19.
Who do I call about an overgrown neighboring lot?
Report it to Tampa Code Enforcement via the city's 311 system or online portal. Inspectors will evaluate and issue notice if warranted.
Compare other topics
See how Riverview and Tampa compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool