Franklin, TN Property Maintenance: Vacant Lot Maintenance (2026)

Vacant-lot maintenance in Franklin is governed by Title 13 (Property Maintenance Regulations) and Section 13-106 (Health and Sanitation Nuisances). The specific weed/grass standard: all premises (including the perimeter of vacant lots adjacent to rights-of-way or developed properties) shall be maintained free from weeds, grass and plant growth in excess of twelve (12) inches in height. This includes all grasses, annual plants and vegetation, but does NOT include trees, shrubs or cultivated flowers or gardens. The 12-inch rule applies uniformly to vacant lots and occupied parcels. The owner is responsible for the lot itself plus the perimeter adjacent to the right-of-way. Vacant land is also subject to the broader nuisance provisions of Section 13-106 — premises must not become or remain in a filthy condition; rubbish and garbage on vacant lots is prohibited. Enforcement begins with a Notice of Violation issued by Franklin Building & Neighborhood Services (615-794-7012). The Property Maintenance Codes page warns: 'If the violation is not corrected, the City may be forced to take action to abate the violation by having the rubbish removed, the grass cut, etc. and then take legal action to recover associated costs.' Each day that a violation continues is considered a separate offense and Franklin Municipal Court may levy a fine for each offense. Costs of abatement may be recovered as a lien against the property. Franklin operates a code-compliance reporting system; complaints may be filed online or by phone. Persistent or repeat violations may trigger escalating fines per Title 13.