Durham County, NC Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)
Key Facts
- Nuisance threshold
- Over 12 inches high
- Required cut height
- 6 inches maximum
- Chronic violator
- Two notices in one year
- Civil penalty
- $100 + $10/day
- Code section
- Durham Code § 26-181
Summary
Durham declares dense weeds, vines, briars and undergrowth a public nuisance when they harbor pests or sit near buildings. Overgrowth over 12 inches high must be cleared and cut to no more than six inches.
The weeds, grass, vines or briars constituting a prohibited condition described by this subsection shall be cleared and cut to not more than six inches in height.
Full Breakdown
Durham City Code § 26-181 finds that dense growths of weeds, vines, briars or undergrowth allowed to accumulate can harbor rodents, vermin or mosquitoes and increase fire, disease and injury hazards. A prohibited condition is weeds, grass, vines or briars over 12 inches high within 100 feet of an abutting public street or 50 feet of a house or other building; owners must clear and cut them to not more than six inches. The code enforcement / housing code administrator issues a mailed and posted notice of violation, and a 'chronic violator' (two notices in a calendar year) can face expedited abatement. The city may cut the growth and bill the owner.
Violations & Fines
Civil penalty $100 first day plus $10 per day thereafter (§ 26-190); city may abate and lien the cost; final-order violations carry a criminal fine up to $500 (§ 26-189).
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes weeds a nuisance in Durham?
What happens if I ignore a weed notice?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Durham County
How Durham County compares: Cities with the Strictest Weed and Property Maintenance Rules·Compare Durham County to another location·View the North Carolina landscaping rules overview
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