De Pere, WI Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)

Section 74-8 of the De Pere Code of Ordinances defines noxious weeds to include everything listed in Wis. 0407 plus sow thistle, wild and Indian mustard, quack grass, all ragweed, burdock, hay-fever-producing grasses and weeds, and, notably, any grass or noxious weed over 12 inches in height. Every owner, occupant or person controlling land in the city must destroy noxious weeds growing on it, and if they don't, the weed commissioner destroys or arranges to destroy them under Wis. 0517. Property owners can avoid the height cap by establishing a planned natural landscaping area instead of ordinary lawn: subsection (c) allows an unlimited height for such an area so long as it doesn't sit in a street terrace or right-of-way, keeps at least a three-foot setback from property lines and rights-of-way (unless it abuts another natural landscaping area or a permitted fence), has a distinct edged border of mowed grass, low fencing or natural material, and doesn't block the clear-vision triangle at intersections.

The weed commissioner, appointed annually by the mayor for a term running May 1 to April 30, is the official who inspects properties and enforces the height limit.