Rockville, MD Landscaping Rules: Grass Height Limits (2026)

Under Rockville's Property Maintenance Code in Chapter 5, Article XII of the city code, property owners and occupants must maintain exterior premises to prevent overgrowth. Grass and weeds exceeding 10 inches in height constitute a violation. The definition of weeds encompasses all grasses, annual plants, and vegetation other than trees, shrubs, and cultivated flowers and gardens. This means intentionally maintained garden areas with native plantings or ornamental grasses are generally exempt from the height limit. The requirement extends to the public right-of-way adjacent to the property, meaning homeowners are responsible for maintaining the grass strip between the sidewalk and the street. Rockville's Community Enhancement Code Enforcement division conducts curbside inspections and responds to resident complaints. Inspectors work with residents to resolve violations, typically issuing a notice of violation with a correction deadline before escalating to fines. Seasonal enforcement is heaviest during spring and summer months when rapid growth can quickly exceed the 10-inch threshold.