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May 16, 2008

Cutting down the weeds

Spring brings overgrown weeds

By Lauren Ricks

Flowers aren’t the only plants that sprout up this time of year.

According to Athens’ Public Health and Safety department coordinator Sheila Garrett weeds become health and sanitation problems.

The Health and Safety Codes, article two address the cities regulations on how tall weeds and bushes can be. Weeds are not allowed to be any taller than 18 inches or any condition that can be a breeding place for flies or mosquitoes.

Garrett said she receives many calls from citizens about overgrown weeds. Once the tip is phoned in Garrett’s investigation begins.

“I could have 10 to 15 calls a day. Once it starts to cool down, I get one or two,” Garrett said.

She said a violator will be sent a letter in the mail to give notice of the overgrowth.

“I try to contact them by letter. If it comes back unclaimed, I put a public notice in the paper,” Garrett said.

The owner has a grace period of 14 days to deal with the problem. Garrett said if the owner needs more time, she will work with them.

“I try to work with the public, because that is the goal, Garrett said, “to get property owners to take care of the property.”

She said tall weeds are both a health and safety issue, and it’s unsightly.

The weeds are a haven for rodents, such as rats and snakes according to Garrett.

The city operates a community collection site where citizens can drop off yard waste, such as brush and leaves. The fee charged, ranging from $3 to $8 dollars, is based on the amount of yard waste brought in.

“We end up having it ground up for mulch and brush clippings,” Garrett said. “We give it away for free and use it in our own parks.”

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