Landscaping Rules in Kent County, DE (2026)
2 rules for unincorporated Kent County, Delaware.
Verified from official government sources
Tree Removal & Heritage Trees
Kent County's subdivision ordinance requires Regional Planning Commission approval before any developer clears land defined as woodland, a wooded area of at least 10,000 square feet with a closed canopy. Inside the county's designated growth zone, developments must preserve 20% to 60% of existing woodland depending on density; outside the growth zone, no more than 30% of a woodland tract may be cleared for any purpose.
Kent County Woodland Clearing Permit Rule
Significant RestrictionsKent County Code § 187-73(B), (F)
CLEARING: The removal of trees from an area of 5,000 square feet or greater, whether by cutting or other means. Clearing shall not include the removal of trees for landscaping purposes by individual lot owners. ... F. Clearing prohibited without approval. Clearing, as defined by this section, for any purpose whatsoever, except the establishment of trails and pathways (not greater than eight fee...
Weed Ordinances
Kent County makes it a public nuisance to let weeds, underbrush or other noxious growth reach 12 inches or taller on any improved lot, under Zoning Code § 205-32. The rule exempts legitimate farm operations, farm fields and woodland areas, so the height cap targets residential and commercial lots rather than agricultural or naturally wooded land.
Kent County Caps Weeds and Grass at 12 Inches
Some RestrictionsKent County Code § 205-32
It shall be unlawful and considered a public nuisance for the owner, occupant or tenant of any premises to permit any weeds, underbrush, deleterious or unhealthful growths or other noxious matter to grow to a height of 12 inches or more. This provision shall not apply to any legitimate farm operations, farm fields and woodland areas.
All Kent County ordinances
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