Tuscaloosa, AL Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)

Tuscaloosa's weed and overgrowth rules are set out in its own Code Sec. 13-67, 'Unlawful growth of vegetation.' The ordinance is written to keep premises and vacant lots free of growth favorable to harboring mosquitoes, other insects, rodents, or reptiles. It is unlawful to allow weeds, grass, or kudzu to exceed twelve (12) inches in height. The section adds a specific bamboo restriction: it is unlawful to plant or allow bamboo within fifty (50) feet of any residential property line, right-of-way, or public utility easement. The ordinance also reaches other overgrown vegetation, including vines and underbrush, and downed trees or limbs allowed to remain to an extent that creates favorable conditions for pests or otherwise constitutes a public nuisance or danger to public health, safety, and welfare. The section explicitly provides that no notice is required to constitute a violation. Enforcement is carried out by the city's litter/code enforcement officers, who may issue a corrective notice of violation specifying a period to correct it; failing to comply within that period is a separate offense (Sec. 13-79.4). Because Sec. 13-67 prescribes no specific fine, the general penalty in Sec. 1-8 applies (Code of Ala. 1975, Sec. 11-45-9), and each day is a separate offense.