For the purpose of this chapter, the term "weeds" means noxious weeds as defined by State law. All weeds or growing grasses upon any platted lot in the City which are in excess of one foot (1'), or have gone or about to go to seed, are hereby declared to be a nuisance and dangerous to the health, safety and order of the City, with the following exceptions:
A. Slope Areas: Slopes that are steeper than three to one (3:1) may be left in a natural state.
B. Ponds/Wetlands: Property adjacent to ponds may be left in a natural state. Property owners will not be allowed to mow City property, including that property surrounding ponds.
C. Natural/Wildlife Areas: Natural areas which include parks, wetlands/ponds, unplatted land and other City designated areas may be left in a natural state.
D. Natural Areas On Platted Lots: Natural areas will be allowed on platted lots in backyards from the most rear corner of the home subject to a six foot (6') setback from the property lines, except in the case where the natural area is adjacent to another natural area or fence. A natural area contains "native grasses" meaning those species of perennial grasses other than those designated as noxious weeds by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.
E. Undeveloped Platted Lots: Any platted lot within the City that is undeveloped and does not share a common property line with any developed lot(s) which contains a principal structure may be left in a natural state.
Noxious weeds must be removed regardless of where they exist. It shall be unlawful for an owner, lessee or occupant of any land described above to allow, permit or maintain a "nuisance" as defined herein on any such land or along the sidewalk, street or alley adjacent thereto. (Ord. 158, 8-10-2017)