A. It shall be unlawful for any owner, lessee or occupant or any agent, servant, representative or employee of any such owner, lessee or occupant having control of any occupied or unoccupied lot or land or any part thereof in the city to permit or maintain on any such lot or property or along the sidewalk, street or alley adjacent to the same, any growth of plants, grass, brush, or other weeds or vegetation which is horticulturally out of place to a height greater than twelve inches (12"). This requirement does not apply to the following: (Ord. 2000-10, 9-5-2000)
1. A wetland, wetland buffer or floodplain designated on the official zoning map;
2. A drainage pond or ditch which stores or conveys stormwater;
3. Maintained and weeded gardens, trees and shrub plantings;
4. Property being used for agricultural purposes consistent with the city zoning ordinance; and (Ord. 2000-10, 9-5-2000; amd. 2005 Code)
5. An area designated by the city council as a "natural preserve".
B. The determination of what constitutes a "natural preserve" shall be made by the city council in its sole discretion. The city council shall consider the following factors in making its determination:
1. Whether there are compelling reasons to preserve the property in its natural state;
2. The zoning district of the city within which the property is located; and
3. Whether any public safety or health problems may result if the area is designated a "natural preserve". (Ord. 2000-10, 9-5-2000)