HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Building Official Izzy Rivera wants to remind residents that the warmer weather means mowing season is here. Having grass or weeds that are 12 inches high or taller is a code violation within city limits.
“People tend to think it's just about aesthetics, and of course we want to protect the property values of our neighborhoods and increase quality of life measures, but there are other reasons it's important,” Rivera said.
Overgrown weeds not only increase fire danger to the property itself, but they can increase the chance of fire spreading from one property to another. They also harbor insects, rodents, reptiles, and other creatures that can be a menace to health and safety.
Last year, the City of Hutchinson was more lenient with enforcement as COVID made things more difficult for everyone, but as things begin to return to normal, residents can expect to see enforcement stepping up.
“If a property is found in violation, we let the owner know and give them 10 days to take care of it. If the issue persists, that property will be added to our mow list for the year and will be mowed as needed, with the owner being billed,” Rivera said.
The city is stepping up its efforts in mowing rights-of-way and public land as well and is still seeking to hire additional seasonal staff. For more information, please visit www.hutchgov.com.
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