Coconut Creek, FL Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)

Chapter 14, Article III (Lot Clearing) of the Coconut Creek Code defines "untended vegetation" by height and by land condition. Grass, weeds or underbrush above six inches counts in areas partially or fully developed with structures. The trigger is twelve inches in areas partially developed without structures and twenty-four inches in undeveloped areas without structures. The definition also reaches dead trees, hedges and any dense growth of trees, vines or other vegetation that creates a fire hazard, harbors mosquitoes, rodents, snakes or other pests, blocks the sight lines of motorists or bicyclists, impedes pedestrians, or hurts the appearance of the property and its neighbors.

Section 14-42(c) makes it a violation for any owner, occupant or tenant to permit untended vegetation on a parcel they own, lease or possess. The duty extends into the adjoining public right-of-way, measured between the front plot line and the centerline of the road and between the extensions of the side plot lines. A homeowner with a swale strip in front of the house is therefore responsible for that strip. Section 14-42(b) separately covers excessive accumulations of weeds, undergrowth and other living or dead plant life, and § 14-42(f) declares untended vegetation a public nuisance.

The process under § 14-44 starts with one written notice by certified mail to the owner of record listed with the county property appraiser. The notice requires the owner to abate within seven days of receipt. If the owner does nothing, the city can enter and cut the property, and the cost plus administrative charges becomes a lien. The owner can request a hearing before the code enforcement board or special master within seven days of receipt. Enforcement is by the community improvement division.