Cincinnati, OH Landscaping Rules: Artificial Turf (2026)

Cincinnati Municipal Code does not contain a specific prohibition on artificial turf or synthetic grass for residential properties. Chapter 1423 (Landscaping and Buffer Yards) establishes landscaping requirements for commercial, institutional, and multi-family developments, including minimum plant material and tree canopy standards, but these provisions do not apply to single-family residential lots. Homeowners may install artificial turf as an alternative to natural grass without a specific city permit for the turf itself. However, property owners should ensure that synthetic turf installations maintain proper drainage and do not direct stormwater onto neighboring properties or public rights-of-way. Homeowners associations (HOAs) in certain neighborhoods may have their own covenants restricting or governing artificial turf, so residents should check applicable deed restrictions. Properties in historic districts subject to the Cincinnati Historic Conservation Board may face additional review for visible exterior changes including front-yard landscaping modifications.