Sterling Heights, MI Property Maintenance: Vacant Lot Maintenance (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- Property Maint. Code § 302.4.1
- Weed height limit
- 6 inches / before seeding
- Enforcement depth
- Lot depth or 165 feet
- City remedy
- City mows, liens property
Summary
Sterling Heights, Michigan requires owners of subdivided or roadside lots in Macomb County to cut noxious weeds before they reach six inches, or the city mows the lot and liens the property for the cost.
The owner, agent, or occupant of (a) any subdivided land (lot) in a subdivision in which buildings have been erected on 60% of the lots, or (b) a lot or parcel adjacent to a paved street or road ... upon which noxious weeds are found growing shall destroy such noxious weeds before they reach seed bearing stage or six (6) inches in height, and prevent their regrowth ... for a depth of the lot or parcel, or the depth of 10 rods (165 feet), whichever is less.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-46: Local legislation current through Ord. 509, passed 5-19-26).
Full Breakdown
Property Maintenance Code Section 302.4.1, adopted by City Code Section 11-87, requires the owner of any subdivided lot in a subdivision built out 60 percent or more, or any lot or parcel next to a public street in this Macomb County city, to destroy noxious weeds before they reach six inches or go to seed, for a depth of the lot or 10 rods (165 feet), whichever is less. If the owner does not comply after notice, the city may cut the weeds itself, as often as needed each year, and place a lien on the property for the cost plus administrative and attorney fees.
Violations & Fines
If an owner ignores the March newspaper notice or certified-mail notice, the city cuts the weeds and liens the property for the full cost, including administrative fees, attorney fees, and interest until paid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do vacant or unimproved lots in Sterling Heights have to be mowed?
What happens if I don't cut the weeds after notice?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Sterling Heights
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Vacant Lot Maintenance in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Macomb County handle vacant lot maintenance.