Marupe Municipality Grass Mowing Rules: How to Avoid Fines

The Mārupe Municipality is reminding residents to adhere to property maintenance rules to avoid administrative fines, according to binding regulations No. 30/2025. Landowners must keep grass under 20 centimeters in public-facing areas and meet specific seasonal mowing deadlines to prevent fire hazards and pest infestations.

What are the grass cutting deadlines and height limits?

Binding regulations No. 30/2025, titled “Mārupes novada pašvaldības teritorijas kopšanas un būvju uzturēšanas noteikumi,” mandate a maximum grass height of 20 centimeters in towns, villages, and along driveways or fences. This limit applies unless the property is fenced off from public view, according to the municipality.

Mowing schedules vary by location. In towns and villages, residents must mow at least twice a year, with deadlines set for June 20 and September 30. For private homes outside these areas, a two-meter strip along roads and pedestrian paths must be kept under 20 centimeters, while the rest of the property must be mowed by July 15 and September 30.

Rural territories require general cleanup by September 30. The municipality states these rules prevent the spread of invasive species and reduce fire risks associated with thatch buildup.

Did You Know? To qualify as a “landscape meadow” and avoid standard mowing rules, at least 50% of the area must be covered by wild flowers, such as daisies, buttercups, lilacs, or primroses.

How do “landscape meadows” work as an exception?

Residents may create nature-friendly “landscape meadows” to promote biodiversity. According to the regulations, these areas must remain free of invasive alien species, including Canada goldenrod, purple lupine, and Sosnowsky’s hogweed.

Lawn Mowing (How to Price in 2025)

Nature conservation specialists support this approach, noting that partially mown or taller grasses provide value for birds and insects. While these meadows offer some flexibility, different requirements may still apply to the two-meter strip along public roads.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the municipality is balancing urban aesthetics with ecological necessity. By codifying “landscape meadows,” the local government creates a legal pathway for biodiversity that protects residents from fines while still mitigating the risks of invasive species and fire.

What are the penalties for non-compliance?

Failure to maintain property can lead to administrative liability under the Administrative Code of Latvia. Physical persons face fines ranging from €140 to €700, while legal entities may be fined between €700 and €2,900.

The municipal police issue summons for explanations and the filing of administrative protocols when properties are neglected. In some cases, warnings are issued first. However, the municipality notes that thatch burning carries heavier national penalties, with fines for individuals ranging from €280 to €700.

If residents ignore police summons or fail to provide explanations, the municipality may apply stricter penalties. One reported instance involved a €50 fine for an untidy property and thatch accumulation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum allowed grass height in Mārupe towns?
The maximum height is 20 centimeters for properties in towns, villages, and along driveways, unless the area is fenced from public view.

When is the final mowing deadline for the year?
The final deadline for general cleanup and mowing across towns, villages, and rural territories is September 30.

What happens if the municipal police find an unkempt property?
The police send a summons to the owner to provide an explanation and complete an administrative protocol.

Do you believe biodiversity exceptions like landscape meadows should be standard in all residential zones?