Richmond, VA Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)

Richmond City Code Chapter 98 (Vegetation) sets the maximum height of grass, weeds, and other foreign vegetation at 12 inches on occupied and vacant lots alike. The authority derives from VA Code §15.2-901, which expressly grants Virginia cities the power to declare overgrowth a public nuisance, and VA Code §15.2-906, which authorizes summary abatement at the owner's expense. Upon a sworn complaint or inspector observation, Richmond Code Enforcement issues a Notice to Abate giving 7 days to cut, after which the city may enter, cut, and lien the cost against the property. Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac within 10 feet of public right-of-way or adjoining property can be declared a noxious weed under VA Code §3.2-802 and subjected to a separate abatement order with a shorter cure. Intentional native plant gardens, vegetable gardens, and ornamental beds are exempt if clearly cultivated. Richmond's Department of Public Works enforces the ordinance, and billing goes through the Department of Finance with a 10 percent penalty if unpaid within 30 days.