Richland County, SC Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)
Key Facts
- Height limit
- 12 inches (grass/weeds)
- Vines
- Over 10 feet is a violation
- Notice by
- Sheriff, written notice
- Cure period
- 14 days
- Penalty
- Up to $500 or 30 days
Summary
In developed parts of unincorporated Richland County, grass or weeds over 12 inches tall, or trailing vines over 10 feet, can be declared an unlawful nuisance. The Sheriff serves notice, and unabated growth can be cut by the county and billed to the owner as a lien.
Grass or weeds in excess of twelve (12) inches in height or trailing vines exceeding ten (10) feet in length ... dead or desiccated growth that poses a fire or other safety hazard and is located within ten (10) feet of a property line ... may be deemed and declared a nuisance.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-24: This supplement is current through Ordinance No. 033-25HR).
Full Breakdown
Richland County Code Sec. 18-4 governs weeds and rank vegetation. A violation includes grass or weeds in excess of twelve (12) inches in height, trailing vines exceeding ten (10) feet, dead or desiccated growth posing a fire or safety hazard within ten (10) feet of a property line, and dead growth harboring insects, vermin, or rodents. When such unsafe or noxious vegetation exists on a lot in a developed area so as to constitute a nuisance, the Sheriff may serve written notice on the owner, occupant, or agent. If not corrected within 14 days it is a misdemeanor. If not abated within 30 days, Public Works may cut and remove the vegetation and lien the cost against the property.
Violations & Fines
Failure to abate within fourteen days of notice is a misdemeanor: a fine not exceeding $500 or imprisonment not exceeding 30 days; the county may also abate and recover its costs as a lien.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall can my grass be in unincorporated Richland County?
Who cuts it if I don't?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Richland County
How Richland County compares: Cities with the Strictest Weed and Property Maintenance Rules·Compare Richland County to another location·View the South Carolina landscaping rules overview
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