Richmond encourages native plantings through sustainability programs. Native plant gardens are allowed in residential yards as long as vegetation is maintained and does not violate the 12-inch weed height rule for non-garden areas. The James River Park system highlights native Virginia Piedmont species.
Richmond City Code Chapter 98 (Vegetation) permits intentional native plant gardens as a recognized exception to the 12-inch grass and weed height limit, but the yard must be deliberately cultivated rather than unmanaged. The Richmond Department of Public Works typically treats delineated beds, edged borders, or a posted sign identifying the area as a habitat or pollinator garden as evidence of intentional cultivation. VA Code Title 15.2 authorizes the city to enforce weed abatement under §15.2-901 through §15.2-906, and the James River Park System Invasive Plant Task Force promotes Piedmont natives such as black-eyed Susan, Virginia bluebells, and switchgrass. The Resource Protection Area buffer along the James (VA Code §10.1-2109, Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act) strongly favors native vegetation within the 100-foot RPA. HOAs in Windsor Farms, Westhampton, and similar neighborhoods may still impose stricter aesthetic standards.
No fine for native plant gardens meeting the cultivation standard. Unmanaged areas may be cited under Chapter 98 as weeds: notice to abate with a 7-day cure period, then civil penalty up to $250 per VA Code §15.2-906 plus abatement cost lien.
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See how Richmond's native plants rules stack up against other locations.
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