Idaho Falls, ID Property Maintenance: Weeds & Overgrown Grass (2026)

Idaho Falls sets a clear numeric standard for vegetation. Under City Code Section 5-8-2, "weeds" means any plant, growing or dead, more than ten (10) inches in height measured from the surface of the ground, except plants grown for ornamental purposes or for the production of food for man or beast; noxious plants are considered weeds regardless of height. The same 10-inch definition appears in the Sanitation chapter (8-6-4). Section 5-8-11 makes it unlawful for any owner or occupant of real property within the City to allow weeds to grow, exist, or accumulate. The City's Weed Control page notes that Idaho Falls enforces both the State Weed Law and the local nuisance ordinance limiting weeds to 10 inches, and Code Enforcement specifically targets weeds over 10 inches tall. Enforcement and abatement follow Section 5-8-12: the City sends written notice to the owner (using the Bonneville County assessment-roll address and posting the property), and if the weeds are not removed within fifteen (15) days, the City may remove them and levy a special assessment for the reasonable cost. If the assessment is not paid within thirty (30) days, it is certified to the Bonneville County assessor, added to the property tax roll, and becomes a lien collected with the same penalties as other property taxes. Ordinary turf grass and intentionally grown ornamentals or food crops are not treated as weeds.