Burien, WA Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)

The City of Burien regulates weeds and overgrowth through the vegetation clause of the nuisance definition, § 8.45.020(5)(c)(vii). The clause lists four targets. The first is any noxious or toxic weed or uncultivated plant. The second is weeds or tall grass that can be a fire hazard. The third is any nonnative herbaceous plant with growth exceeding 12 inches in height from the ground surface. The fourth is any tree in danger of falling and creating a substantial risk of damage or injury.

The 12-inch figure attaches to nonnative herbaceous plants, so it is not a blanket mowing height for every lawn or native plant. The clause is written for property in general and does not distinguish improved lots from unimproved ones. Its exemption is also printed: the definition and the related enforcement do not apply to Burien-owned or maintained property, critical areas, or stormwater facilities. The history line under § 8.45.020 shows amendments by Ord. 806 in 2022 and Ord. 767 in 2021.

A neighboring clause, § 8.45.020(5)(c)(vi), adds plant growth on sidewalks adjacent to any property to the list of right-of-way obstructions, so overhanging growth that blocks a walkway is a separate violation from the height limit.

Enforcement runs through Chapter 1.15 BMC. A code enforcement officer seeks voluntary correction first, then issues a notice of civil violation. The responsible person has 14 days from service to pay and correct, sign a voluntary correction agreement, request a mitigation hearing with a $100.00 filing fee, or contest before the Burien hearing examiner. A penalty can be waived if corrective action is completed by the date in the notice or agreement. If the vegetation stays, the city can abate it under § 1.15.210, bill the costs due 30 days after the bill, and certify unpaid amounts to the county treasurer for the tax rolls.