High weeds and grass are becoming more prevalent in Midland due to recent rains and will be a high priority in the coming weeks for the City of Midland’s Code Compliance Division.
Code Compliance officers will be issuing “notices to comply” at residences and businesses with tall grass and weeds around Midland beginning Monday, July 27. These notices are not citations, but rather notices that a property owner is not in compliance with the city’s ordinance and could face enforcement action in the future for repeated failure to comply.
In addition to ensuring that grass is less than 18 inches tall in yards around town, Code Compliance officers will also be checking alleys for tall weeds and grass. Homeowners must maintain the area from in front of their house, starting from the back of curb or road edge, all the way to halfway into their alley behind the house, along the entire width of their property. This includes keeping grass trimmed and the area free of obstructions and debris.
Tall weeds and grass are not only a public nuisance but also create environmental issues. As weather becomes more dry, tall grass can become a fire hazard and fuel wildfires. It also provides a habitat for unwanted rodents, snakes and insects.
The City of Midland does not provide mowing services to private homeowners. Citizens are encouraged to join www.NextDoor.com to network with neighbors for solutions to any unique concerns and problems. Individuals or organizations wanting to offer volunteer mowing services to those with disabilities or limitations may sign up to do so through www.justserve.org. A list of those who sign up will be posted on the City’s website at www.midlandtexas.gov/mowing as a convenience to these individuals.
###Media Contact: Building Official Steve Thorpe