(Spirit Lake)– The city of Spirit Lake is looking to crack down on those who don’t properly maintain their yards and property.
The city council Tuesday held the first reading of a proposed ordinance addressing tall vegetation. It’s similar to one already on the books, but speeds up the enforcement process.
Provisions of the proposed ordinance include publishing a notice prior to the growing season informing residents of the procedure the city will use to abate tall grass and weeds. In the event of a violation, a notice will be filled out with the date and address and will be posted on a stake on the violator’s property. A notice will also be sent to the violator via certified mail. After seven days the city will arrange to have the property mowed if the owner hasn’t taken care of the matter. The cost will be billed to the property owner, and if not paid, will be assessed against the property.
The ordinance is triggered once the height of grass, weeds or other vegetation reaches eight inches.
Several council members said they feel the revised ordinance is necessary after getting complaints in the past over the amount of time it was taking to enforce the previous ordinance.
