For the purpose of this subchapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
ENVIRONMENTAL PUBLIC NUISANCE.
(1) Any growth of weeds and rank vegetation on private or governmental property which has gone to seed, or which has attained a height of nine inches or more.
(2) Any accumulation of dead weeds, grass, or brush on private or governmental property.
(3) Any poison ivy, ragweed, or other poisonous plant, or plants detrimental to health, growing on any private or governmental property.
(4) Property which has been allowed to become a health or safety hazard, or which has accumulated litter or waste products, unless specifically authorized under existing laws and regulations.
EXCLUDED PROPERTY. Land cultivated for gross profit in a commercial or agricultural zone; a natural or developed forest, which does not create a health or safety hazard; and open lands, fields, or wooded areas more than 150 feet from any occupied property. Any land that is the subject of a Conservation Reserve Program (“CRP”) with the United States Department of Agriculture or other contract with the state or the federal government which prohibits mowing or spraying for weed control for purposes of preserving wildlife habitat. Also, any classified wetlands, designated reforestation or prairie grass/garden areas, waterfront management areas, and river front areas.
WEEDS AND RANK VEGETATION. Uncultivated and undesirable plant life which grows excessively and unmanageably upon the land and has little or no public value, including, but not limited to, grass (over nine inches in height), thistles, burdock, jimson weed, ragweed, milkweed, poison ivy, poison oak, ironweed, and other noxious vegetable matter. The term does not include agricultural crops, hay, pasture, trees, bushes or shrubs which have been planted or cultivated by the owner or occupant of the property.
(Ord. 2017-03, passed 3-23-2017)