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Anoka County, MN Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified July 2026

Key Facts

Native lawns
Allowed with approved plan
Blaine location
Rear yard only
Setback
5 feet from property lines
No noxious weeds
Required in plan
Neighbor consent
51% must not object

Summary

Anoka County cities allow native and pollinator landscaping, but a native lawn taller than the mowing limit usually needs an approved plan. Blaine requires a land-management plan, rear-yard placement, and neighbor consent.

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Anoka County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

Property owners may seek approval of a land management plan to convert a portion of their property to a native lawn, where grasses and other growth may exceed six inches in height... The native lawn area shall be located in the rear yard only and maintain at least a five-foot setback from all property lines.

Full Breakdown

Minnesota strongly supports native and pollinator plantings, and Anoka County cities exempt approved native lawns from ordinary grass-height limits. Blaine lets owners convert part of a property to a native lawn where grasses may exceed the eight-inch nuisance height, provided they submit a land-management plan describing the property and planting intent. The native area must sit in the rear yard, keep at least a five-foot setback from all property lines, contain no plants classified as noxious weeds, and be maintained so it poses no hazard. Applicants must show that at least 51 percent of adjoining owners do not object. Pollinator lawns of low-growing clover and fescue are broadly allowed. Confirm the process with your city.

Violations & Fines

Letting grass grow tall without an approved native-lawn plan is treated as a nuisance; the city can order mowing or abate and bill the owner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I plant a no-mow native lawn in Blaine?
Yes, with an approved land-management plan. The native area must be rear-yard, keep a five-foot setback, exclude noxious weeds, and have no objection from 51% of adjoining owners.
Do pollinator lawns need approval?
Low-growing pollinator lawns kept under the height limit are generally fine. A taller native planting that exceeds the mowing limit needs the city's land-management-plan approval.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Anoka County

All Anoka County rules

Compare Anoka County to another location·View the Minnesota landscaping rules overview

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