Newark, OH Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)

Section 1292.07 of the Newark Code of Ordinances sets the planting standard for the landscaping chapter. Subsection (a) requires that all trees, shrubs and vegetation planted be native or common to Central Ohio or similar climates, in good condition and planted using accepted planting procedures. The wording is native or common, so a non-native plant that is common to Central Ohio or a similar climate satisfies it. Subsection (b) adds that new trees planted to meet the minimum tree standards and buffering requirements must be at least two inches in caliper and at least six feet in height.

The chapter has a narrow reach. Under § 1292.03, it applies to all lands in the City except as exempted, and all new construction and additions must comply, with plans submitted for approval. No zoning permit is issued for the construction of or addition to a building without compliance (§ 1292.03(c)). Section 1292.04(a) exempts properties in the RS, RL, RM, RH, RZLL and TFR districts entirely, and § 1292.04(f) exempts the DC District except for the prohibited-tree list in § 1292.07(c). A homeowner's own yard in a residential district is therefore outside this planting standard.

The code describes what counts as landscaping, and the definition excludes some choices. Under § 1292.02(j), landscape material includes living trees, shrubs, vines, lawn grass and ground cover, and artificial plants shall be prohibited. The stated purpose in § 1292.01 includes maintaining wildlife habitats and reducing erosion and sedimentation. Required plantings must be in place before final inspection and occupancy (§ 1292.08), and a required tree that dies or is removed must be replaced (§ 1292.09).

The code does not carve out an allowance for a managed natural landscape. Separately, § 678.02(b) has Council serve notice on a landowner whose noxious weeds are about to spread or mature seeds, requiring them to be cut and destroyed within five days after service.