For the purpose of this subchapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
LANDOWNER. The owner-of-record of any property, as shown in the most recent property tax abstracts on record in the office of the County Auditor, and includes jointly or severally two or more persons owning property in partnership or joint tenancy. The term also includes a political or municipal corporation or other governmental or quasi-governmental entity, religious or charitable organization or association and the like which holds or controls actual proprietary title to any land even though such land may be excluded from property taxation.
NOXIOUS VEGETATION. Any weed or other plant which because of its toxic or allergenic characteristics, propensity to grow densely or rapidly so as to choke out more desirable forms of vegetation or other reasons is deemed inimical to the public health or general welfare and the presence and proliferation of which in the community is therefore deemed subject to proper control and restriction under the general police powers of the municipality. Specific types or species of plant which are deemed noxious for purposes of this act are declared and listed in the Appendix.
RANK VEGETATION. Means the following:
(1) Lawn grass or weeds which are permitted to grow to a height of more than six inches on any developed residential, commercial or industrial property (whether occupied or not) or to a height of more than one foot on any undeveloped land or land in agricultural use;
(2) Any noxious vegetation regardless of height, location, the use of property on which situated or other incidental characteristics, subject, however, to such exceptions as are set forth in the Appendix; or
(3) Trees, bushes, shrubs, vines and the like, whether cultivated or naturally growing, which are permitted to grow so as to:
(a) Encroach upon, obstruct the normal use of or render hazardous a public sidewalk or vehicular thoroughfare; or
(b) Encroach upon, impair the normal use and enjoyment of or detract from the appearance of any adjacent public or private property.
WEED. Any plant, vine or small bush which is naturally growing and is not normally planted deliberately, cultivated and maintained for ornamental or agricultural purposes.
(`86 Code, § 3-4-2) (Ord. 86-C4, passed 7-15-86)