The Department of Code Enforcement (DCE) announced the kickoff of the 2014 High Weeds and Grass abatement season. In 2013 alone, DCE investigated over 22,000 possible high weeds and grass cases, while mowing more than 17,000 properties.
“It is the responsibility of property owners to keep their properties maintained,” said DCE Director, Rick Powers. “High weeds and grass has a negative effect on public health and safety. While we proactively educate and encourage citizens on their responsibility, the City has created a successful program for reporting and abating neglected properties.”
High weeds and grass is defined as vegetation over 12 inches in height. High weeds and grass is an environmental public nuisance and can harbor pests and vermin, while concealing illegal activity. Citizens are encouraged to report possible high weeds and grass properties to the Mayor’s Action Center. Once a high weeds and grass complaint is received, a DCE inspector will inspect the property to determine if high weeds and grass exists.
If a high weeds and grass does exist, a notice of violation will be issued to the property owner. If property owners fail to maintain their property, a contracted City vendor will mow the property and the owner will be charged $353. Following the initial mow, the property will be scheduled for re-mowing every 30 days, or until the property owners takes responsibility for the property. The average “call-to-cut” time for DCE is 15 days. This includes the required notification time set forth in the ordinance.
To report a possible high weeds and grass property, call the Mayor’s Action Center at (317) 327-4MAC (4622). Citizens can also report complaints through the RequestIndy website at indy.gov/requestindy or through the Reuqestindy app available for smartphones.
For more information regarding high weeds and grass, please click here. A printable high weeds and grass brochure is available online by clicking here.
The mission of the Department of Code Enforcement (DCE) is to improve the quality of life in the City of Indianapolis through strategic application of civil code regulation; effective licensing, permitting, inspection, enforcement, and abatement practices; and local government oversight of property safety and maintenance, business, event, professional, and construction industries.
