Lawrence, KS Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)

Section 18-304(c) lets an owner of property zoned for residential use voluntarily register that property with the city's codes enforcement division as land used for 'natural landscaping', defined in the section as growing vegetation to its natural height and form, so long as the vegetation isn't otherwise prohibited by state law. Registration matters most after a notice of violation: an owner who receives a weed-ordinance notice under § 18-305 can then claim the natural-landscaping exemption, but the claim must be presented to codes enforcement in writing within the same ten-day window § 18-305 gives for requesting a hearing.

Filing the claim automatically stays enforcement of the weed article until the city commission hears and decides it. The exemption is not automatic even for a registered property: § 18-304(c) bars any exemption if the vegetation growth amounts to a nuisance, or if granting the exemption would harm the public health, safety or welfare of the community. 00 or up to 180 days in jail under § 18-305(a); registration and a timely exemption claim are the only ways a residential owner heads that penalty off once cited.