Newport News defines "landscape" as living plants, natural features, or structural features under Chapter 45 (Zoning Ordinance). No express ban on artificial turf exists, but zoning landscaping requirements are written around living plant material, and the city has no formal approval pathway for synthetic-turf substitution.
Newport News City Code Chapter 45 (Zoning Ordinance), Article V (General Regulations) and the landscaping standards embedded in individual zoning districts define "landscape" as covering or adorning an area using living plants (trees, shrubs, vines, ground covers, or grass), natural features (rock, stone, bark chips, land contouring), and/or structural features (fences, walls). Synthetic or artificial turf does not appear in the definition of living plants or as an approved ground cover substitute. Site plans submitted to the Planning and Development Department must include a planting plan showing all required open-space areas, buffer areas, trees, and plantings per Chapter 33.02. Applicants seeking to use artificial turf in lieu of living ground cover must obtain a variance or zoning administrator
Non-conforming landscaping on commercial or multi-family sites subject to site plan review is addressed by Codes Compliance as a zoning violation; civil penalties of up to $500 per day may apply.
Newport News, VA
Newport News prohibits oversized vehicles from parking on residential streets overnight. Vehicles exceeding 20 feet long, 8 feet wide, or 8 feet tall are ban...
Newport News, VA
Newport News regulates retaining walls under Chapter 13 (Buildings and Building Regulations) and the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code. Retaining wall...
Newport News, VA
Newport News regulates fence materials under Chapter 13, Article VI of the City Code. Certain hazardous materials are restricted or prohibited in residential...
Newport News, VA
Newport News enforces the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code (SFPC), which requires property owners and occupants to cut and remove weeds, grass, vines,...
Newport News, VA
Newport News does not restrict residential lawn ornaments, statues, or yard decorations on private property at the city level. Ornaments must stay within the...
Newport News, VA
Newport News does not impose specific restrictions on residential inflatable holiday displays. Displays must remain on private property and not encroach into...
See how Newport News's artificial turf rules stack up against other locations.
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