Artificial turf is permitted in Lakewood residential yards but must be installed with proper drainage under the zoning code and cannot be used in required front-yard landscape setbacks as the sole ground cover for new construction. Historic district properties may face additional review by the Lakewood Historic Preservation Commission.
Lakewood has no outright ban on artificial turf, but installations must comply with the Codified Ordinances Chapter 1305 (Building and Property Maintenance) drainage standards — the sub-base must allow stormwater infiltration or be tied to an approved storm drain to avoid runoff onto neighboring parcels, relevant because Lakewood is a dense combined-sewer community under NEORSD. Front-yard installations in new-construction or substantial-remodel projects in R1A/R1 zones typically require a landscape plan reviewed under Chapter 1151, and total impervious or non-infiltrating coverage is capped at district maximums. Parcels within Lakewood's designated historic districts (Clifton Boulevard, Birdtown, and the Lake Avenue Historic District) must obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Lakewood Historic Preservation Commission under Chapter 1129 before replacing natural lawn with artificial turf. The Ohio EPA recognizes pervious sub-bases as preferable stormwater management under OAC 3745-39 MS4 permits. Lead content in artificial turf must meet federal CPSC guidelines.
Improper drainage causing runoff: notice of violation, 30-day cure, up to $150/day fine under §1305.99. Historic district installation without a Certificate of Appropriateness: stop-work order and removal order. Non-compliance with landscape plan conditions in new builds: certificate of occupancy withheld.
Lakewood, OH
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Lakewood, OH
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Lakewood, OH
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Lakewood, OH
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