Wauwatosa, WI Landscaping Rules: Weed Ordinances (2026)
Summary
Wauwatosa enforces maximum grass and weed height, typically 8 to 12 inches. Overgrown properties subject to code compliance action and city abatement.
66.0407 66.0407 Noxious weeds. 66.0407(1) (1) In this section: 66.0407(1)(a) (a) “Destroy” means the complete killing of weeds or the killing of weed plants above the surface of the ground by the use of chemicals, cutting, tillage, cropping system, pasturing livestock, or any or all of these in effective combination, at a time and in a manner as will effectually prevent the weed plants from maturing to the bloom or flower stage. 66.0407(1)(b) (b) “Noxious weed” means Canada thistle, leafy spurge, field bindweed, any weed designated as a noxious weed by the department of natural resources by rule, and any other weed the governing body of any municipality or the county board of any county by ordinance or resolution declares to be noxious within its respective boundaries.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
Wauwatosa code compliance enforces maximum vegetation height (typically 8 to 12 inches). Overgrown grass and weeds constitute a nuisance per WI Stat. §66.0407. Property owners receive notice with compliance deadline (usually 7 to 10 days). If not corrected, the city may mow and charge costs via property lien. Vacant lots receive special attention. Terrace/boulevard strips adjacent to property must also be maintained by the property owner. Growing season runs roughly May through October.
Violations & Fines
Notice to abate. City mowing at owner’s expense ($200 to $500+). Administrative fees. Property lien.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Sources & Official References
Other rules in Wauwatosa
How Wauwatosa compares: Cities with the Strictest Weed and Property Maintenance Rules·Compare Wauwatosa to another location·View the Wisconsin landscaping rules overview
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Weed Ordinances in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Milwaukee County handle weed ordinances.