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Overgrown grass or weeds

Certain harmful plants and overgrown dry grass can create dangerous or unhealthy conditions and violate County code.

Our service area

Washington County Solid Waste and Recycling handles code enforcement in unincorporated Washington County. Use the MetroMap tool to see if the address in question is in unincorporated Washington County or a city. If the address is in a city, contact that city for information about code enforcement. For urgent issues, call the Sheriff’s Office non-emergency number at 503-629-0111. For emergencies, dial 9-1-1.

Overgrowth of grass and weeds

Certain harmful plants and overgrown dry grass can create dangerous or unhealthy conditions that violate Nuisances 8.20.

Large bushes next to house

What plants are considered harmful?

Harmful plants include Jimson, Burdock, Ragweed, Thistle, White Top, Russian Knapweed, Canadian Thistle, Tansy Ragwort or Gorse (also known as Irish Broom or Furze). These plants can harm agriculture, spread harmful pollen and pose fire risks.

I want to file an overgrowth complaint.

Dry grass hazard

Is my neighbor’s overgrown grass a violation?

Overgrown green grass is not a violation. However, overgrown dry and brown grass is a violation because it can be a fire hazard.

I want to file an overgrowth complaint.

A tree limb hangs over a roof and gutter

Is my neighbor's sick or unmaintained tree a violation?

Code enforcement does not handle tree problems in Washington County. If a downed tree or large branches are blocking a sidewalk or road, contact Washington County Land Use and Transportation at 503-846-ROAD(7623) or email [email protected]. To report road hazards outside of normal business hours (8 a.m.-5 p.m.), call the Sheriff’s Office non-emergency number at 503-629-0111.

long grass and picket fence in a big field

Is it a violation if the green space next to my property is overgrown?

Code enforcement does not address overgrowth on undeveloped natural habitat. These areas provide space for animals. Removing them pushes wildlife into residential neighborhoods.