Orem, UT Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)
Key Facts
- Code Section
- Orem City Code 11-1-3 (item 10)
- Numeric lawn-height cap
- None; trigger is fire hazard or encroachment
- Required abatement
- Mow/disc/plow within 4 in of ground
- After cutting
- Cut weeds must be removed
- Penalty
- Nuisance abatement + class C misdemeanor (11-1-8)
Summary
Orem City Code Section 11-1-3 declares noxious weeds on vacant lots or other property, along sidewalks or the outer edge of a public street, or weeds that constitute a fire hazard a public nuisance; the property owner must abate them by discing, plowing, or mowing weeds within four inches of the ground and removing the cut weeds.
Noxious weeds located on vacant lots or other property, along public sidewalks or the outer edge of any public street, or weeds in any other location which constitute a fire hazard. Compliance is accomplished by discing, plowing, or mowing weeds within 4 inches of the ground and by removing the cut weeds.
Full Breakdown
Orem does not set a single numeric lawn-height limit (such as a 6- or 12-inch rule) the way some Utah cities do; instead, its nuisance code targets weeds and overgrowth that create a fire hazard or encroach on public ways. ' Item 16 separately covers overgrown or uncultivated vegetation that is hazardous, obstructs traffic, or harbors pests. Together these provisions function as Orem's tall-grass and weed standard: growth that becomes a fire hazard or spills over a sidewalk or street edge must be cut to within four inches of the ground and the clippings removed. Enforcement is by code enforcement under the nuisance article, with City abatement available if the owner does not comply.
Violations & Fines
Overgrowth meeting Section 11-1-3 may be declared a nuisance; the City can require mowing to within four inches and removal of the cut material, abate the condition if the owner fails to act, and recover abatement costs. Maintaining the nuisance is also a class C misdemeanor under Section 11-1-8.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall can my grass or weeds be in Orem, Utah?
What does Orem require when weeds get out of control?
Is overgrown grass a code violation in Orem?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Orem
How Orem compares: Cities with the Strictest Weed and Property Maintenance Rules·Compare Orem to another location·View the Utah landscaping rules overview
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Weed Ordinances in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Utah County handle weed ordinances.