Sarasota County, FL Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)
Key Facts
- Max height
- 12 inches
- Code section
- Sec. 54-475(8)
- Applies to
- Unincorporated county (platted lots)
- Enforcement
- Notice, County mowing, lien
- Excludes
- Cultivated landscape plantings
Summary
In unincorporated Sarasota County, grass and weeds over 12 inches are "Excessive Growth" and a public nuisance under the Property Standards Ordinance (Sec. 54-473, 54-475). Owners must cut it; the County can mow and lien the property.
Excessive Growth shall mean the uncontrolled growth of vegetation that: ... (b) Has reached a height in excess of twelve (12) inches... Excessive growth includes vegetation... growing from private lands into or across public rights-of-way, utility easements, sidewalks, drainage ditches, swales, or streets.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 98).
Full Breakdown
Sec. 54-475(8) defines Excessive Growth as untended vegetation that has reached a height over twelve (12) inches and may harbor pests, create a hazard, or lower property values, including growth extending into rights-of-way, swales, sidewalks, or streets. Landscaped shrubs, trees, and cultivated natural landscaping are excluded if they are not a hazard. When a lot exceeds the limit, Code Enforcement issues a Notice of Public Nuisance with a reasonable correction period; if the owner does not comply or request a hearing, the County cuts the growth and bills the cost, which becomes a lien.
Violations & Fines
County abatement (mowing) billed to the owner and recorded as a lien; delinquent assessments may be foreclosed, with court costs and attorneys' fees added.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high can my grass be?
Does this cover my landscaped garden?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Sarasota County
How Sarasota County compares: Cities with the Strictest Weed and Property Maintenance Rules·Florida rules heatmap·Compare Sarasota County to another location·View the Florida landscaping rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.