Spokane Municipal Code 10.08.020 prohibits grass and weeds exceeding 10 inches on improved properties. Code enforcement issues abatement notices and can mow at owner expense plus administrative fees.
Under Spokane Municipal Code Chapter 10.08, it is a nuisance for any property owner to allow grass, weeds, or rank vegetation to exceed 10 inches in height on improved residential or commercial lots. Unimproved properties and large lots may have different standards but cannot harbor noxious weeds listed by the Spokane County Noxious Weed Control Board under RCW 17.10. Code Enforcement responds to complaints, typically issuing a notice of violation with 10-14 days to abate. If uncorrected, the city can contract private mowing and bill the owner at actual cost plus administrative fees (commonly $250-$500). Repeat violations accrue faster. Native landscaping, pollinator gardens, and meadow areas may qualify for exemption if registered and maintained per a landscape plan avoiding noxious weed harbor.
First notice: 10-14 days to comply. City abatement: cost plus $250+ admin fee. Liens filed against title for unpaid costs. Chronic violators face daily fines.
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See how Spokane's grass height limits rules stack up against other locations.
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