Winston-Salem code limits grass and weeds on developed residential lots to 12 inches. Exceeding the limit is a public nuisance under Chapter 46, and the city can cut the lot and place a lien for costs plus an administrative fee after notice.
Under Winston-Salem Code of Ordinances Chapter 46 (Nuisances), property owners must keep grass, weeds, and non-ornamental vegetation cut to less than 12 inches on improved residential lots within 300 feet of a structure. Violations are discovered by complaint via CityLink 311 or by inspector patrol. The city issues a written notice of violation, and the owner typically has 10 days to cut the lot. Failure to comply results in the city contracting a mow, charging the owner an administrative fee plus the mowing cost, and, if unpaid, placing a lien on the property. Cultivated gardens, meadow-style native plantings, and buffers are generally exempt if maintained. HOAs may impose stricter private standards.
Failure to abate: city mows and charges costs + admin fee (commonly $200+). Unpaid charges become a lien. Repeat offenders may face civil penalty under Chapter 46.
Winston-Salem, NC
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Winston-Salem, NC
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See how Winston-Salem's grass height limits rules stack up against other locations.
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