Dade City, FL Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)

Article III of chapter 102 defines "excessive growth" in section 102-131(c)(4) as grass, weeds, rubbish, brush, branches, or undergrowth that has reached a height of 12 inches or more, but the operative limit is lower: section 102-133(c) requires every owner, agent, custodian, lessee or occupant to control the growth of grass, weeds, brush and other overgrowth both on the property and on the adjoining unpaved right-of-way strip, and it makes overgrowth exceeding eight inches unlawful, requiring it to be trimmed below eight inches. Section 102-132 declares that condition a nuisance and menace to public health, safety and welfare because it depreciates neighboring property values and forces repeat city cleanups at taxpayer expense.

Enforcement under section 102-134 starts with a written notice of violation sent by certified mail, giving the owner 20 calendar days from receipt to cut the growth back below eight inches. 00 filing fee, and the city commission hears the case at a public hearing; an unsuccessful appeal leaves 15 more days to comply. If the violation is never remedied, section 102-135 lets the city cut the lot itself and assess the actual cost, plus administrative expenses, against the property as a special assessment lien bearing 12 percent annual interest, with the unpaid balance eligible for a tax certificate carrying up to 18 percent interest if it is not paid by the following December 1.