Grass Height Limits: Salt Lake City vs South Jordan
How do grass height limits rules compare between Salt Lake City, UT and South Jordan, UT?
South Jordan has fewer restrictions than Salt Lake City.
Salt Lake City, UT
Salt Lake County
Salt Lake City enforces a 12-inch maximum grass/weed height under Municipal Code §9.20. Violations start at $150. Exemptions exist for approved water-wise and natural landscapes.
View full Salt Lake City rules →South Jordan, UT
Salt Lake County
Grass and weeds over 8 inches on developed lots constitute a nuisance; city may abate after notice and lien costs to the property.
View full South Jordan rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Salt Lake City | South Jordan |
|---|---|---|
| Max Height | 12 inches | - |
| Code | SLC 9.20.010 | - |
| First Fine | $150 | - |
| Cure Period | 10 days after notice | - |
| Exemption | Designed water-wise landscapes | Designed native/waterwise landscapes |
| Height limit | - | 8 inches |
| Notice period | - | 10 days typical |
| Enforcement | - | City abatement + lien |
| Vacant lots | - | Annual abatement program |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Salt Lake City FAQ
My ornamental grasses grow over 12 inches — am I violating the code?
No. The 12-inch rule targets uncultivated weeds/overgrowth. Intentional water-wise and ornamental grass landscapes are exempt.
Does the city warn me before fining?
Yes. You'll receive a written notice with 10 days to mow before a fine is assessed or the city abates.
South Jordan FAQ
Does tall ornamental grass violate the code?
No — ornamental grasses in a designed waterwise landscape are exempt from the height limit.
Can the city mow my lawn without asking?
Only after written notice and a cure period expire. Costs are then liened to the property.
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