NYC does not set a specific grass height, but Administrative Code §16-120.2 and §27-2005 require property owners in Richmond County to keep lots free of rank weeds and overgrowth that create nuisance or pest harborage.
Unlike suburban Long Island towns with 10-inch grass rules, NYC uses a general nuisance standard. HPD and Sanitation Enforcement respond to 311 complaints about overgrown lots. 'Rank weeds and grass' typically means growth over 10–12 inches that harbors rodents or creates fire risk. Vacant lots must be kept clear and, if chronic, fenced under §16-123.
Notice of Violation: $100 first offense, $300 second, $500+ third. City cleanup billed to owner with 17% admin fee; repeat offenders face liens.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Richmond County, NY
Staten Island outdoor lighting must comply with NYC Zoning Resolution Section 23-00 and 42-00 performance standards for glare and trespass.
Richmond County, NY
NYC Zoning performance standards and common-law nuisance address excessive light trespass onto neighboring Staten Island properties.
Richmond County, NY
Official NYC-issued or approved bins must be placed at the curb between 6 PM the night before pickup and 4 AM the morning of pickup, and removed from the pub...
Richmond County, NY
NYC Department of Sanitation (DSNY) collects trash on Staten Island. Under the 2024 Containerization Rule, residential buildings with 1-9 units must place re...
Richmond County, NY
Bulk items (furniture, mattresses, appliances) are collected by DSNY on regular trash days with no separate appointment for most items. Mattresses and box sp...
Richmond County, NY
Recycling is mandatory on Staten Island. Metal, glass, plastic, and cartons go in one bin (blue labeled); mixed paper and cardboard go in a separate bin (gre...
See how Richmond County's grass height limits rules stack up against other locations.
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