Milwaukee allows artificial turf in residential yards subject to stormwater and drainage requirements. Artificial turf cannot replace required front-yard landscape buffers in new construction.
Artificial turf is permitted on Milwaukee residential properties as a ground cover. Installations must not increase stormwater runoff to neighboring properties or the public right-of-way; permeable sub-base design is recommended and large installations may require MMSD review. The Milwaukee zoning code Chapter 295 requires a percentage of living landscape in front yards of new construction, and artificial turf cannot count toward that requirement. Historic districts may restrict artificial turf as incompatible with period design. Pet use installations require subsurface drainage and odor control.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Milwaukee code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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