May 15, 2023 - The City of Fort Wayne’s Tall Grass/Weed Program kicks off today, May 15. Neighborhood Code Compliance oversees the City’s Tall Grass/Weed Program, which calls for weeds or grass to be no taller than nine inches.
Reports of high grass or weeds that exceed nine inches will be accepted beginning today; the public should call 311 or 260-427-8311 to report a possible violation. Individuals reporting a violation must have the property’s address to register the concern.
“Tall grass on one property can cause a negative effect on an entire neighborhood,” said Chris Blauvelt, Neighborhood Code Compliance Director. “Our proactive program not only addresses the tall grass concerns but also assists in preventing other challenges such as noxious vegetation, rodents, insects and illegal dumping.”
Neighborhood Code Compliance employs eight seasonal, part-time inspectors who respond to concerns from the public but also act proactively to identify high grass and weeds, particularly along high-traffic corridors.
Inspectors take date-stamped electronic photos and post a placard on the cited property when determining a violation. As a courtesy, an abate notice is mailed to the owner on record, who then has five days to correct the violation. After five days, the City’s mowing contractors will inspect the property to ensure it is in compliance. If not, they will mow and take date-stamped before- and- after photos. The owner will then be charged for the mowing; if the invoice is not paid within 30 days, a lien will be placed on the property.