Ann Arbor caps grass and weed growth at 8 inches on residential properties. Chapter 82 (Noxious Weeds) authorizes the city to cut overgrown lawns and bill the owner, with the cost becoming a lien on the property if unpaid. Native-plant front yards are exempt under the 2018 native landscaping policy if registered with the city.
Under Ann Arbor City Code Chapter 82, all weeds and grasses on private lots must be cut whenever they exceed 8 inches in height. The ordinance defines "noxious weeds" broadly to include any vegetation that has grown to a height detrimental to public health, safety, or property values. The property owner is responsible for keeping the entire lot, including the terrace/parkway strip between the sidewalk and curb, cut to compliance.
When Code Compliance confirms a violation, the city issues a notice giving the owner typically 5 to 10 days to cut. If the owner fails to comply, the city contracts the cutting and bills the owner for labor plus a service fee (often $150 to $400 depending on lot size). Unpaid bills are placed as a lien on the property tax bill.
Ann Arbor amended the ordinance in 2018 to recognize naturalized native-plant landscapes. Properties may register a "native plant area" with the city Planning Department, exempting registered beds (including front yards) from the 8-inch limit so long as they meet defined design standards: setbacks from sidewalks, signage, and a maintained vegetation-free buffer along the lot line.
First-offense civil infractions are $100, second $200, and third $500 within a 12-month period. The full cutting cost plus a 20% administrative fee is added to the owner's tax bill if the city cuts. Persistent non-compliance can trigger nuisance abatement and additional fines. Report or check status at (734) 794-6963.
Ann Arbor, MI
Ann Arbor enforces weed abatement for property maintenance through blight ordinances. Property owners responsible for clearing weeds on their lots.
Ann Arbor, MI
Ann Arbor may encourage or require native and drought-tolerant landscaping. Some areas restrict traditional grass lawns in favor of water-efficient alternati...
Ann Arbor, MI
Ann Arbor enforces property maintenance standards to prevent blight. Unmaintained properties with peeling paint, broken windows, or accumulated debris may fa...
See how Ann Arbor's grass height limits rules stack up against other locations.
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