Blaine, MN Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)

Blaine's tall-grass ordinance carves out an exception for intentional native plantings. Owners of residential property may seek city approval of a land management plan to convert part of their property to a native lawn or managed natural landscape, where grasses and other growth may exceed eight inches in height. Per the city's vegetation ordinance (Chapter 90, Art. II), the published requirements include: written consent from a majority — 51 percent — of adjoining property owners; placement in the rear yard; a setback (about five feet) from all property lines unless waived by neighboring owners; no noxious weeds; screening so the planting is not an unmaintained eyesore from the public way; and a posted sign indicating that a managed natural landscape is being established during the establishment phase. The city reserves the right to inspect annually for compliance, and approval does not automatically transfer to a new owner. The plantings must be maintained so they do not create hazards to adjoining properties or to people or vehicles on public ways. Statewide, Minn. Stat. 412.925 requires cities to allow managed natural landscapes — planned, intentional plantings of native or nonnative grasses, wildflowers, forbs, ferns, shrubs, or trees, including rain gardens and meadow vegetation — that may exceed eight inches but may not contain noxious weeds and must be maintained.