Tulsa, OK Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)

Tulsa Revised Ordinances Title 27 Chapter 16 defines nuisance weeds and tall grass, generally requiring that grass and weeds be mowed when they exceed 12 inches in a maintained yard. However, intentionally designed native plant gardens, pollinator habitats, and prairie restorations are treated as managed landscape and are not considered nuisance weeds, consistent with guidance from Working In Neighborhoods (WIN) code enforcement. The Oklahoma Conservation Commission promotes native plantings through the Oklahoma Native Plant Society and state conservation districts for erosion control, pollinator support, and water conservation. Recommended Oklahoma natives for Tulsa landscapes include little bluestem, switchgrass, purple coneflower, black-eyed Susan, butterfly milkweed, eastern redbud (state tree), Mexican plum, and post oak. Xeriscape principles are endorsed by Tulsa Water during drought stages. HOAs may require turf grass and restrict meadow-style landscapes; state law 60 O.S. §854 (Oklahoma Turf Grass / Drought Law) limits HOA authority to prohibit drought-resistant landscaping during declared droughts. Tulsa's Up With Trees program provides free native tree plantings along public ways. No setback or species list is mandated by city code, giving homeowners wide latitude.