Fairfax County, VA Landscaping Rules: Grass Height Limits (2026)

Under Fairfax County Code Chapter 119, Article 3 (Property Maintenance), all owners of improved lots must maintain grass, weeds, and uncultivated vegetation at or below 12 inches in height. This is enforced by the Department of Code Compliance. When a complaint is received or an inspector observes a violation, the County issues a Notice of Violation giving the owner typically 7–10 days to cut. If uncorrected, the County contracts a mowing crew and bills the owner; unpaid charges become a lien on the property. Repeat violators face escalating civil penalties under VA Code §15.2-900, which authorizes localities to assess civil penalties up to $50 for the first offense and $200 for subsequent. Fairfax permits natural and meadow-style landscaping ONLY if it is intentionally cultivated and distinguishable from neglected vegetation — owners should maintain a maintained edge, use native plants, and document the landscape plan. Noxious weeds (including Canada thistle, Johnson grass, kudzu) must be controlled regardless of height. Large undeveloped parcels (usually over 2 acres and unimproved) are generally exempt. HOAs frequently impose stricter standards, often mandating 4–6 inches and specific seasonal maintenance schedules. Vacant rental properties must still be maintained by owners. The Code Compliance complaint line is 703-324-1300 or online via the Code Compliance portal.