Permits No Longer Needed For Most Natural Landscapes in Rochester

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - The Rochester City Council has made some changes to a city ordinance that should make it easier for private property owners to install "natural landscapes" rather than traditional turf lawns.

City officials say the amendments to the Tall Grass and Weeds Ordinance were adopted in order to align the municipal law with a state law that allows private property owners to install and maintain natural landscapes that are "planned, intentional, and maintained."

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The changes approved by the City Council states that Natural Landscape Permits are not required for properties outside of the boulevard area, where a permit is still needed for anything other than turf grass. Permits are also not required for turf grass lawns less than 12 inches tall. Turf grass is defined as bluegrass, ryegrass, fescues, and blends.

A permit is required if the property owner wishes to allow turf grass to grow more than a foot tall.

Officials note that the height restrictions do not apply to other plants used for natural landscapes as long as they are not noxious weeds or located in the boulevard. More information on what is considered a noxious weed can be found on the Minnesota Noxious Weed List.

Applications to obtain a Natural Landscape Permit from the city can be found on the City of Rochester website.