Apex, NC Property Maintenance: Vacant Lot Maintenance (2026)
Key Facts
- Cutting deadlines
- May 31, July 31, September 30
- Mow height limit
- Cut within 4 inches of ground
- Civil penalty
- $1.00 per day uncut
- Governing law
- Apex Town Code § 10-5(b)
- Livestock exemption
- Grasses for permitted livestock exempt
Summary
Apex requires owners of vacant lots to cut weeds, grass, and noxious growth to four inches by May 31, July 31, and September 30 each year, or face daily civil penalties.
The owner or any person in possession of any lot vacant of any buildings or structures shall cut within four inches of the ground all weeds, grass or noxious growth from the lot at least three times each year; the first time not later than May 31, the second time not later than July 31, and the final time not later than September 30 of each year. Each day after these dates, respectively, shall be and constitute a separate offense, punishable by civil penalty of $1.00 for each day any weeds, grass, or noxious growth shall remain uncut. If, for any cause, the weeds or noxious growth are not cut down on the lot on or before the dates designated in this subsection, the town may cause the same to be cut down and the cost of cutting may be charged against each of the lots from which the weeds or other noxious growth are moved and against the owners thereof, and charged to them and collected as taxes. (Code 1973, § 16-12; Ord. No. 2022-127, § 1, 9-13-2022)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 3).
Full Breakdown
Apex Town Code § 10-5(b) makes weed and undergrowth accumulation on vacant lots a public nuisance. Owners or possessors of any lot vacant of buildings must cut weeds, grass, or noxious growth within four inches of the ground at least three times a year, by May 31, July 31, and September 30. Missing a deadline triggers a $1.00 civil penalty for each day the growth remains uncut, and the Town of Apex, Wake County, may mow the lot itself and bill the cost to the owner as a tax lien. The rule exempts grasses grown to feed livestock permitted under § 4-3.
Violations & Fines
Civil penalty of $1.00 per day the weeds remain uncut after the May 31, July 31, or September 30 deadline; the town may also mow the lot and bill the cost as a tax lien against the owner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this apply to all vacant lots in Apex?
What happens if I miss the deadline?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Apex
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Vacant Lot Maintenance in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Wake County handle vacant lot maintenance.