Palm Beach County Weed Ordinances Rules (2026) — What You Need to Know

Palm Beach County's property maintenance standards for vegetation are established in Section 14-32 of the County Code, with additional landscape requirements in the ULDC. The ordinance sets specific height limits for uncultivated vegetation depending on lot type and size.

For developed residential and non-residential lots of one-half acre or less, all premises must be maintained free of weeds or uncultivated vegetation exceeding seven inches in height on the entire lot. For vacant lots, the threshold is more lenient at 18 inches in height, but only in areas beyond 25 feet of adjacent developed property. Within that 25-foot buffer zone adjacent to developed properties used for residential, commercial, or industrial purposes, the 18-inch standard applies strictly.

Noxious weeds are prohibited entirely on all lots, regardless of type. This prohibition does not apply to cultivated flowers, gardens, or native vegetation that is intentionally maintained. The ordinance also requires that grassed areas be maintained through regular weeding, watering, fertilizing, pruning, mowing, edging, and other actions consistent with acceptable horticultural practices.

Additionally, the county prohibits accumulations of waste, yard trash, rubble, and debris alongside overgrown vegetation. Properties with Brazilian Pepper — a prohibited invasive species — within 25 feet of adjacent developed property are also in violation. For parcels greater than one-half acre, abatement is required only for the portion of the nuisance within 25 feet of any adjacent developed property, while lots of one-half acre or less must be abated in their entirety.