Summer and rain are guaranteed to grow your lawn. While it’s a chore that many don’t enjoy, the City of Durham is reminding property owners to regularly mow their lawns.
According to the City’s Neighborhood Improvement Services Department, since April 1st, code enforcement officers have responded to more than 900 complaints of too tall grass, resulting in unsightly neighborhoods and numerous citations that could cost property owners at least $250 in fines. “Our code enforcement officers are swamped right now with complaints about tall grass and we really need our property owners to take the time to mow their lawns so our officers can focus on other issues that impact our quality of life,” said Director Constance Stancil. “We don’t want to issue notices of violation or levy fines. We simply want folks to embrace their neighborhoods by regularly mowing their lawns, and if possible, help out their elderly or disabled neighbors to keep their lawns mowed as well.”
To help remind property owners to mow their lawns this growing season, the department is kicking off an educational campaign by posting reminders to community list serves, on Durham Television Network, on the City’s social media channels, and advertising on several channels with Time Warner Cable.
According to Stancil, too tall grass is more than just an aesthetic issue…it’s a health issue too. “Weeds and undergrowth over 12 inches tall provide a harborage for rodents, vermin, mosquitoes and other pests,” Stancil said. “This increases the hazards of disease, injury or fire as well as creates hazards to the health, safety and welfare of your yard and your neighborhood.”
For more information about the City’s weed, junk and debris ordinance or the responsibilities of property owners, visit http://bit.ly/1oH6jaM.
