Shelby County, TN Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)
Key Facts
- Weeds/grass rule
- Sec. 44-88(b)
- Urban blight def.
- Sec. 44-87
- County crew
- Vegetation Control
- Max fine
- $50 per offense/day
Summary
Shelby County Code section 44-88(b) prohibits allowing high weeds or grass to accumulate so as to permit urban blight in unincorporated areas. Section 44-87 defines urban blight from uncut weeds and undergrowth. Complaints are enforced through the Environmental Court, and the county Vegetation Control section abates overgrowth along county rights-of-way.
Urban blight means a condition existing on property such as weeds, grass, undergrowth and uncut shrubbery without apparent or patent supervision by an owner or tenant so that the exterior of property is in disrepair, contains excessive amounts of high weeds, tall grass, unkempt greenery and undergrowth about the premises.
Full Breakdown
Section 44-88(b) states that a person shall not allow high weeds or grass to accumulate so as to permit urban blight. Section 44-87 defines urban blight as a condition of weeds, grass, undergrowth and unkempt shrubbery without apparent supervision by an owner or tenant, so the exterior is in disrepair and contains excessive high weeds, tall grass, and undergrowth inviting dust, obstructions to view, or a harbor for unauthorized persons or animals. Violations are prosecuted in the Environmental Court under section 44-92, with fines up to $50 per offense. The county's Vegetation Control, Landfill and Litter Pick-Up section separately controls vegetation through herbicide spraying and tree-trimming on county rights-of-way. Cities such as Memphis run their own high-weeds programs.
Violations & Fines
Allowing high weeds, tall grass, or unkempt undergrowth to accumulate so as to permit urban blight on unincorporated property. Prosecuted in Environmental Court under section 44-92; fine up to $50 per offense, each day a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a set grass height limit?
Who cuts overgrowth on county roads?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Shelby County
How Shelby County compares: Cities with the Strictest Weed and Property Maintenance Rules·Compare Shelby County to another location·View the Tennessee landscaping rules overview
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