Pollinators, Policies and Property: A Guide to Understanding and Improving Local Ordinances for Pollinator Conservation

Municipal codes provide legal directives on subjects such as public safety, zoning, environmental protection and building standards. A typical code is organized into categorical chapters, with articles or sections within each chapter being individual ordinances.

Many cities have online portals with access to comprehensive zoning regulations, land-use policies and specific ordinances related to gardening, landscaping and environmental protection. For efficient searches, use keywords such as weeds, noxious weeds, tall grass, flower gardens, landscaping displays, mowing height and nuisance on the city’s website. Look for categorical chapters that inform about the following:

1. Landscaping and aesthetic regulations that guide the appearance of yards.
2. Public nuisance requirements that reference mowing height.
3. Permitting processes for nontraditional gardening practices, such as beekeeping or native landscaping, or land management plans.

If you are confused by your municipal code, reach out to relevant city officials for guidance. They can be helpful in interpreting applicable ordinances and will respect your efforts to comply with the law.

Fear of bees is common, but it’s often based on misconceptions. Most pollinators, such as honeybees, mason bees and bumblebees, are nonaggressive and focused on collecting pollen rather than interacting with people. Educate neighbors on the differences between pollinators and more aggressive stinging insects, such as wasps and yellowjackets, and provide simple tips for avoiding unwanted encounters. For example, keeping food and sugary drinks covered outdoors can help prevent wasp attraction.

Reassure neighbors by emphasizing the essential role pollinators play in maintaining biodiversity, supporting agriculture and strengthening local ecosystems. Pollinator habitats don’t just benefit bees — they also attract butterflies, hummingbirds and other vital species that contribute to a healthy, balanced environment. For more information on bee safety and creating
a wasp-free space, see Bee Safety for All Ages.

Photo Credit:

Patrick Beauzay, NDSU

Attend public meetings to hear about current policy initiatives and participate in discussions about supporting pollinator habitat. To find public hearings and meeting notices, check the city or town’s official website, where they often post agendas and announcements. Local newspapers may also carry these notices, along with public access TV or local radio broadcasts. The city clerk’s office typically has physical postings, online resources and social media platforms.

Photo Credit:

April Johnson, NDSU

When a homeowners association (HOA) governs the property, understanding its covenants is essential to planning pollinator habitat. Many HOAs appreciate well-maintained landscapes to increase property values and may be open to conversations about incorporating pollinator-supporting plants in ways that complement neighborhood aesthetics. Here’s how to investigate HOA covenants effectively:

• Obtain a copy of the HOA’s rules, often called covenants, conditions and restrictions. These documents are typically available online, through the HOA board or from a real estate closing packet.
• Review landscaping guidelines carefully to identify any restrictions on plant height, types of plants or garden layout. Watch for rules that limit tall grasses, wildflower meadows or front yard modifications.
• Document what is allowed, including plant lists or approved landscaping zones, so that the proposed garden can be designed to abide within the covenants or to respectfully challenge those boundaries.
• Start conversations with HOA board members or landscape committees early. Express interest in pollinator gardening, explain its benefits and ask if exceptions, special permits or pilot programs are possible.

Before pursuing policy change, it is essential to gain support from neighbors. Community support can ease concerns, prevent opposition and create momentum for change. Whether the goal is to update municipal ordinances, revise HOA rules or simply establish a pollinator habitat in a residential area, outreach and education are key.

Engage Neighbors

Some residents may be unfamiliar with pollinator habitats or unsure about how they will look. Start by sharing examples of attractive, well-maintained pollinator habitats from similar neighborhoods or cities to show that these spaces can be both beautiful and ecologically beneficial. Framing the garden as both a habitat and a landscape feature helps shift the conversation from “wild and messy” to “purposeful and well-designed.”

To build understanding and support, consider hosting garden tours, informal Q&A sessions or neighborhood meetings. Use trusted resources — such as NDSU Extension publications on pollinator conservation — to provide clear, research-based information about native plants, maintenance practices and ecological benefits.

Once a pollinator habitat is in place, visible markers, such as the NDSU Extension Certified Pollinator Garden or Certified Bee Lawn signs, can help communicate the garden’s purpose. These signs show that the planting is intentional, supported by experts and meets defined conservation standards.

Extension County Agents

Extension county agents have access to extension publications on pollinator conservation and may host workshops to help gardeners plan pollinator habitats and select native plants. Agents may also have information on funding opportunities and cost-share programs for pollinator habitat creation and can offer guidance in garnering support for sustainable landscaping practices.

To utilize Extension county agents for help with pollinator gardens and city ordinances, start by identifying the local Extension office through NDSU Extension, University of Minnesota (UMN) Extension, Montana State University (MSU) Extension and South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension. To contact the county agent, visit the county’s Extension website or call the office directly.

Soil Conservation Districts

Soil conservation districts exist in every county in North Dakota. Comprised of conservation professionals, they can assist in planning native plantings as well as procuring seeds and plants. Some districts even offer cost-share for the practices. To contact a soil conservation district, visit their website or call the office directly.

Extension Master Gardeners

The NDSU Extension Master Gardener Program is an excellent resource for public education and outreach. Master Gardeners (MGs) are trained volunteers who work with the public to promote sustainable gardening practices. They can provide guidance on selecting and planting native plants, managing local ecosystems and implementing best practices for creating habitats that support pollinators. Contact your Extension county agent to get connected with a Master Gardener who can help you plan a pollinator habitat garden.

Photo Credit:

NDSU Photo

Scan to apply for a home pollinator garden or bee lawn certification.

Photo Credit:

NDSU Photo

Scan to view a map of the NDSU pollinator teaching gardens.

When community support is in place, the next step is to officially suggest changes to municipal ordinances or HOA covenants. Making these changes takes a clear plan, good communication and an understanding of how the approval process works. The steps below provide a guide for updating local rules to support pollinator-friendly practices.

Municipal Codes

1. Learn how the city or town handles changes to local ordinances. Many municipalities follow a set process that may include submitting a formal petition, collecting signatures or asking to be added to a city council agenda — often with deadlines and specific requirements.
2. Once the process is understood, write a draft version of the proposed ordinance that matches the city’s format. Then contact and meet with city officials — such as council members, city planners, the city forester or sustainability committees — especially those already working on environmental efforts. These officials represent the community and are receptive to hearing resident-driven ideas. In smaller towns, the mayor may be available for direct discussion.
3. Build support by asking local organizations like garden clubs, school programs, businesses or environmental groups to write letters of support in favor of the change.
4. Explain how the proposal will help the environment, benefit the community and align with the city’s conservation and beautification goals. Strengthen the case with examples from other cities that have made similar updates and seen positive results.
5. Be prepared to address concerns about pollinator habitat maintenance, such as weeding, trimming, plant height and seasonal cleanup. Consider including provisions for defined borders, setbacks from sidewalks or property lines, and design measures that will prevent plants from spreading into neighboring yards. A clear maintenance plan can ease worries about aesthetics, property values and enforcement.
6. Before submitting the draft, review it with the city’s legal or planning department to ensure it fits within existing laws and can be enforced.
7. Use public meetings to share the idea, answer questions and build more support. Spread the word through local news, social media or neighborhood newsletters to involve more residents and encourage public comments.
8. Stay engaged through the entire process. Maintain communication with city officials, be open to feedback and adjust the proposal if needed. Changing a municipal ordinance takes time and teamwork, but it can create long-term benefits for pollinators and the whole community.

HOA Policies

1. Review the rules that guide the HOA, often called covenants, conditions and restrictions. These documents explain how to suggest changes, which might include writing a request, speaking at a board meeting or getting votes from other residents.
2. Check how the HOA has handled rule changes in the past. Some communities follow strict appearance guidelines and may be more open to a small, temporary trial — such as a test run of a pollinator garden — before making a permanent change.
3. Write a clear example of the new rule. This helps the board see how it would work. For example, the rule might say native plantings are allowed in certain areas, must have defined borders or require board approval. Offer compromises, such as placing the garden in the backyard or choosing low-growing plants that blend with formal landscaping.
4. Build support from neighbors who appreciate native plants. Share the benefits of pollinator gardens and bee lawns, such as saving water, reducing mowing and supporting butterflies and bees.
5. To address concerns about appearance, show examples of attractive pollinator habitat — especially those that match the neighborhood’s style. Photos or design sketches can help residents and board members feel confident in how the pollinator habitat will look.
6. When meeting with the board, be ready to answer questions about upkeep. Explain how the pollinator habitat will be maintained, including trimming, weeding and keeping plants within height limits.
7. After the change is approved, stay in touch with the board and neighbors. Share success stories and photos, and check in to see how the new rule is working. A clear, well-supported plan that combines beauty and purpose is more likely to gain lasting support.
8. Consider running for a position on the HOA board. Serving on the board gives you a voice in decisions and long-term planning. Board members help shape policies, and your presence can ensure pollinator conservation is part of future conversations and landscaping guidelines.

A compelling example of community-led education on pollinator conservation is the Manitou Springs Pollinator District in Colorado. In 2018, local residents launched a grassroots effort to support pollinator conservation in their town. They organized educational fairs, planted pollinator habitats and hosted annual Pollinator Festivals that featured student artwork, garden tours and support from local businesses. These events raised public awareness and built community pride around pollinator conservation. As a result, the initiative led to a significant increase in native plantings and improved habitat for local pollinators.

Photo Credit:

The Prospector

Taking simple precautions and spreading awareness can help ensure that everyone — from children to adults — enjoys their pollinator habitats safely while supporting bee populations.

• Give bees space. Bees are generally nonaggressive if left undisturbed. Move calmly, avoid swatting and let them work.
• Dress wisely. Wear light-colored clothing, as dark colors and bright floral patterns can attract bees.
• Use protective gear. If working near active bees, wear long sleeves, gloves and a hat to reduce the chance of stings.
• Avoid strong scents. Bees are drawn to perfumes, scented lotions and fragrant hair products.
• Respect nests and hives. Stay at least 10 feet away and avoid disturbing them.
• Work the garden at the right time. Bees are most active on warm, sunny afternoons — mornings and evenings may be safer for anyone wary of bees.
• Observe from a distance. A magnifying glass or zoom lens allows for observing bees safely without getting too close.

Bee Sting Allergies: Those with severe bee allergies should carry an epinephrine autoinjector and take extra precautions when outdoors. If stung and experiencing difficulty breathing, swelling or dizziness, seek emergency medical help immediately.

Photo Credit:

April Johnson, NDSU

In 2013, a proposed ban on beekeeping was introduced in the village of Skokie, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago. Local residents, including urban beekeepers and supporters of pollinator health, actively opposed the ban. They organized community meetings, educated the public on the benefits of beekeeping and highlighted the importance of pollinators in city environments. Due to these grassroots efforts, the proposed ban was defeated, and the village considered regulating backyard hives instead of implementing an outright prohibition. This case demonstrates how community advocacy can influence local policies to support sustainable practices and pollinator conservation.

10 Tips for Effective Communication with the Public, Municipal Officials
and the HOA Board

Whether presenting to municipal officials, emailing a sustainability committee or speaking at a public meeting, clear and strategic communication is essential when advocating for pollinator conservation policy changes. Effective communication can build trust, clarify intent and help others see the value of proposed ordinance updates. The following tips offer practical guidance for writing, speaking and connecting effectively with both decision-makers and the broader community.

1. Know the Audience
   Tailor the message to match the priorities and values of the recipient — whether that’s a city official, HOA board or community member. For example, highlight economic savings with budget-conscious stakeholders and aesthetic improvements with neighborhood groups.
2. Lead with Shared Goals
   Frame pollinator initiatives as supporting shared community goals such as beautification, saving money on water bills, increased property values or sustainability, rather than focusing solely on environmental advocacy.
3. Keep It Clear and Concise
   Avoid jargon or overly technical terms. Use short, structured paragraphs or bullet points when writing, and stay focused on one or two key points in verbal conversations.
4. Back Claims with Evidence
   Support arguments with brief data points, case studies or visuals (e.g., before-and-after photos of other pollinator-friendly cities or cost-benefit comparisons).
5. Stay Positive and Solution-Oriented
   Focus on what can be done rather than what isn’t working. Frame the conversation around practical, attainable improvements rather than criticisms of current policy.
6. Anticipate Concerns
   Proactively address common questions or objections, such as concerns about property appearance, pests or fire hazards. Having prepared responses shows professionalism and builds trust.
7. Use Visuals and Examples
   Include photographs, renderings or examples from other communities to help others visualize the proposal and its benefits.
8. Maintain Professional Tone
   Whether in writing or conversation, be respectful and diplomatic — even when encountering resistance. Keep all communication courteous and focused on collaboration.
9. Invite Dialogue
   End messages with an invitation for feedback, a request for a meeting or a question that encourages response. Engagement builds relationships and opens doors for partnership.
10. Follow Up and Express Gratitude
    After meetings or messages, send a thank-you note or email to reinforce the relationship, summarize key points and show appreciation for the recipient’s time and consideration.

Photo Credit:

Photo by Bianca Ackermann on Unsplash.

Designing Beautiful and Biodiverse Pollinator Gardens with the Viewer in Mind

The FAME method is a simple, flexible design framework developed by NDSU Extension to help homeowners and community members create pollinator habitat gardens that are both ecologically beneficial and visually appealing. When used together, the FAME elements help make pollinator gardens more successful, sustainable and socially embraced.

F – Frame: Use paths, fences, borders or edging to clearly define the garden space. Framing transforms wild-looking plantings into intentional designs, helping neighbors and passersby see the beauty in biodiversity.

A – Accessorize: Incorporate eye-catching elements such as flowering trees, ornamental grasses, garden art or bee houses. These touches add structure, interest and seasonal appeal while supporting pollinators with food and shelter.

M – Maintain: Keep your garden clean and welcoming. Regularly weed, prune, eliminate trash and remove dead plant material in early spring (around 50 degrees Fahrenheit). Tidy edges show the garden is cared for and encourage neighborhood acceptance.

E – Educate: Add signage, labels or even QR codes to help others understand what they’re seeing. Explain which plants support pollinators or describe how native species benefit the ecosystem. It’s a garden as well as a conversation starter!

City weed ordinances typically address two categories: “weeds,” which are considered nuisance vegetation due to aesthetic or safety concerns, and “noxious weeds,” which are legally regulated and often defined by a state-designated list.

Weeds: Most city codes classify weeds as unwanted vegetation that exceeds a certain height (usually 6 to 12 inches) and plants that interfere with the use, appearance or safety of a property. For example, grass and non-noxious weeds on any property in Fargo, North Dakota, must be kept at or below 8 inches in height.

Noxious Weeds: Noxious weeds are designated by state or federal law due to their invasive nature, potential to harm agriculture, ecosystems, humans or animals, and resistance to standard landscaping control methods. In North Dakota, examples of noxious weeds include leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula), Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense) and purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria).